PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is a 28-day course of antiretroviral medication that can prevent HIV infection after a potential exposure. It must be started within 72 hours — the sooner the better. Every hour counts.

Where to Go in Tallinn

Go directly to the emergency department at the Nakkuskliinik (Infectious Disease Clinic):

Lääne-Tallinna Keskhaigla — Emergency Department Paldiski mnt 62, 10617 Tallinn Open 24/7 | Phone: +372 651 2000

Walk in and tell the reception or triage nurse:

"Mul oli riskantne seksuaalvahekord ja ma vajan PEP-i. See oli [X] tundi tagasi." ("I had a risky sexual contact and I need PEP. It was [X] hours ago.")

Staff at Paldiski mnt 62 are experienced with PEP requests. You will be assessed, tested (rapid HIV test), and — if PEP is appropriate — started on medication the same visit.

Where to Go in Tartu

Tartu University Hospital — Emergency Department Kliinikumi tee 6, 50406 Tartu kliinikum.ee | Phone: +372 731 8211

The Tartu University Hospital emergency department can initiate PEP. The infectious disease department at the same site handles follow-up.

Where to Go in Narva

For people in eastern Estonia, Linda Kliinik (Linda 4, Narva) can assist with urgent sexual health needs during clinic hours. Outside clinic hours, the nearest emergency PEP access is at Tallinn or Tartu. Given the distance, travelling to Tallinn may be necessary for same-night PEP initiation.

If you're in Narva: Call Linda Kliinik (+372 35 74 455) first — they may be able to advise or assist outside standard hours.

What Happens After

  1. Assessment — the doctor reviews the nature of the exposure and tests your HIV status.
  2. Starter medication — if PEP is appropriate, you receive the first doses on the spot.
  3. Follow-up prescription — the full 28-day course is prescribed digitally (Digilugu) and dispensed at any pharmacy.
  4. Monitoring tests — baseline blood work plus follow-up HIV test at day 28 and 3 months.
  5. PrEP conversation — if this exposure represents ongoing risk, your doctor will discuss whether PrEP is appropriate for you.

PEP Cost in Estonia

  • Haigekassa insured: PEP is covered. Standard treatment copayments apply.
  • EHIC (visiting EU citizens): Emergency/medically necessary PEP should be covered under EHIC.
  • Uninsured: You will be assessed and treated — Estonia does not turn away emergency patients. You will receive a bill; contact the hospital's social services team if cost is a barrier.

The 72-Hour Window

Time since exposure Action
Under 72 hours Go to Paldiski mnt 62 or Tartu UH emergency now
Over 72 hours PEP is not effective — get tested and follow up at 4–6 weeks
4–6 weeks later HIV test even if you didn't take PEP

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