SES-PE Offers HIV Prevention adn Sexual Health Services during Carnaval 2026
The Pernambuco State Health Department (SES-PE) is providing extensive sexual health services, including HIV prevention, during the 2026 Carnaval celebrations in Recife and Bezerros. These initiatives aim to protect the health of revelers and promote safe practices during the festivities.
Recife
In Recife, SES-PE has established a dedicated health point at the Palácio do Campo das Princesas, operating from 4:00 PM to midnight. This location offers Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV prevention, HIV self-tests, and comprehensive sexual health education. https://www.ses-pe.org.br/
The health point also distributes new condoms and water-based lubricant provided by the Ministry of Health (MS). A LED panel displays health guidance and information about SES-PE’s Carnaval initiatives.
According to Grazielle Vasconcelos, Manager of Surveillance of Sexually Transmitted infections and AIDS at SES-PE, “Innovating this Carnaval 2026, SES-PE is providing PrEP and PEP services at the Palácio do Campo das Princesas from 4:00 PM to midnight, offering these prophylaxis strategies, HIV self-tests, and guidance through informational materials and health education. Foliões can also collect the new condoms and lubricant from the Ministry of Health.”
Bezerros
SES-PE is also extending its services to Bezerros, in the Agreste region of Pernambuco, supporting the conventional Papangus celebrations. A mobile health unit has been deployed to provide on-site testing for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and sexual health education, along with condom and lubricant distribution.
Individuals requiring Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) should seek treatment at a local Urgent Care Unit (UPA).
Understanding PrEP and PEP
Both PrEP and PEP are crucial components of HIV prevention strategies.
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) involves daily medication for individuals without HIV who are at higher risk of infection. It significantly reduces the likelihood of contracting HIV before potential exposure. The Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) provides detailed information on PrEP: https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/risk/prep/index.html
PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is an emergency measure taken after potential HIV exposure,such as unprotected sex or accidental contact with biological material.Treatment must begin within 72 hours of exposure and continue for 28 days.The CDC also provides information on PEP: https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/risk/pep/index.html
Both PrEP and PEP are safe and effective, and are part of a comprehensive prevention strategy. However, it is crucial to remember that they only protect against HIV. The government strongly emphasizes the continued and consistent use of condoms as the primary method of preventing other STIs.