Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Laundry? Risks and Precautions

Clothing transmission of infections?

Last week, while walking home at night, I noticed someone following me closely.
When I turned around, he suddenly smiled and quickened his pace to leave.
When I got home, I felt like my body was damp, and I wasn't sure if I was just being overly cautious.
I want to ask, in case he had stabbed me with a needle or splashed me with bodily fluids, assuming his fluids contained HIV.
I washed the clothes I was wearing that day along with other garments, and I'm particularly concerned about my underwear since it is in close contact with private areas.
Could this lead to transmission? Do I need to wash my underwear again, and what is the best way to clean them thoroughly? I'm getting more anxious the more I think about it.
Thank you.

Y, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/29

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual intercourse, with a small portion transmitted through blood.
Based on the situation you described, it is not a route of HIV infection, so there is no need to worry.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2020/06/29

More Info

When it comes to the transmission of HIV, understanding the risks associated with various scenarios is crucial. In your situation, you are concerned about the possibility of HIV transmission through clothing, particularly after an encounter where you felt threatened and worried about potential exposure to HIV-infected bodily fluids.

Firstly, it is important to clarify how HIV is transmitted. The virus is primarily spread through specific bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. The main routes of transmission are through unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. Importantly, HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, such as hugging, shaking hands, or sharing clothing.

In the scenario you described, if someone were to stab you with a needle that had been contaminated with HIV-infected blood, there would be a risk of transmission. However, this risk is contingent upon several factors, including the viral load of the infected individual and the nature of the exposure (e.g., whether the needle was fresh and how deep the puncture was). If you suspect that you have been exposed to HIV through such a method, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can be effective in preventing HIV infection if started within 72 hours of exposure.

Now, regarding your concern about washing clothes, including undergarments that may have come into contact with potential HIV-infected fluids, it is essential to understand that HIV does not survive long outside the human body. The virus is quite fragile and cannot withstand exposure to air for extended periods. When it comes to laundering clothes, washing them with regular detergent and water is sufficient to eliminate any potential risk. The heat from the dryer or the washing machine, combined with detergent, effectively inactivates the virus.

If you are particularly anxious about the situation, you can take additional precautions. Washing your clothes in hot water (at least 140°F or 60°C) and using a good quality detergent will provide extra assurance. However, it is important to note that the likelihood of HIV transmission through clothing is extremely low to nonexistent, especially after proper washing.

In summary, while it is understandable to feel anxious after a potentially threatening encounter, the risk of HIV transmission through clothing, particularly after washing, is negligible. If you have any lingering concerns about possible exposure, especially if you believe you may have been pricked by a needle, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and potential testing. Regular HIV testing is also a good practice for sexually active individuals, especially if engaging in high-risk behaviors. Remember, maintaining open communication with healthcare providers can help alleviate fears and provide clarity on HIV-related issues.

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