Risk of COVID-19 Infection from Minor Finger Wound in Public Interactions

Q: Risk of COVID-19 Infection from Minor Finger Wound in Public Interactions

Dear Miss Egg Yolk： <br>1. <br>The World Health Organization (WHO) refers to the disease caused by the novel coronavirus as COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019), while the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses has designated the virus's scientific name as SARS-CoV-2 (Seve

A small wound between the fingers may pose a risk of infection, especially if you come into contact with various individuals in your work. However, the primary mode of transmission for the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is through respiratory droplets, rather than through open wounds. It is still important to maintain proper hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and covering any wounds to reduce the risk of infection from any pathogens, including the coronavirus?

Last night, I accidentally had a foreign object puncture the webbing between my fingers, causing a small amount of bleeding.
I feel there is a minor laceration in the area.
Today, the webbing is slightly swollen but not bleeding.
As I work at a front desk and frequently interact with the public, I encountered a visitor from New Taipei City.
Both of us were wearing masks as per the pandemic guidelines, but there was still indirect hand contact when exchanging paper applications and money.
I immediately washed and sanitized my hands afterward.
I would like to know the risk of infection from a small wound and whether I should get tested for COVID-19.

Dan Huang Mei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/11

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Miss Egg Yolk:
1.
The World Health Organization (WHO) refers to the disease caused by the novel coronavirus as COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019), while the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses has designated the virus's scientific name as SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2).
The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 belongs to the Coronaviridae family, specifically the beta subfamily (betacoronavirus), and its viral characteristics are still under investigation.
2.
Human infections with coronaviruses primarily present with respiratory symptoms, including nasal congestion, runny nose, cough, and fever, which are common signs of upper respiratory infections.
However, infections with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), and the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 tend to be more severe than those caused by other human coronaviruses, with some cases potentially leading to severe pneumonia and respiratory failure.
Currently known clinical manifestations of confirmed COVID-19 cases include fever, dry cough, and fatigue, with approximately one-third experiencing shortness of breath.
Other symptoms may include muscle pain, headache, sore throat, diarrhea, and some cases report loss (or alteration) of smell or taste.
3.
The complete transmission pathways of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 are not yet fully understood.
Epidemiological investigations and laboratory tests from confirmed cases indicate that the risk of human-to-human transmission increases through close-range droplets, direct or indirect contact with respiratory secretions containing the virus, or prolonged exposure in a confined space within 2 meters of an infected individual without respiratory protection.
Additionally, some animal coronaviruses can cause diarrhea in animals, with the virus detectable in feces, potentially facilitating transmission.
Human COVID-19 cases may also test positive for SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid in feces, but whether this is infectious remains to be confirmed through further research.
4.
From a molecular biology perspective, the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 must bind to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor in the respiratory tract to initiate infection.
Therefore, whether transmission can occur through wounds or blood transfusions is still inconclusive; it is advisable to refer to future medical literature for updates.
5.
It is very correct to wash and disinfect your hands immediately after contact; if SARS-CoV-2 is indeed present, it would likely be eliminated before binding to the receptor.
Therefore, I do not recommend immediate rapid testing; however, are there exceptions? No one can guarantee that.
It may be more reasonable to observe for two weeks, and if any clinical manifestations of COVID-19 occur, then consider rapid testing.
Additionally, be vigilant for signs of cellulitis in your fingers; if there is severe localized inflammation, please seek immediate attention from your family physician or surgeon.
6.
If you have further questions, I recommend discussing them with your family physician before making any decisions.

Reply Date: 2021/06/11

More Info

The risk of COVID-19 infection through a minor finger wound is generally considered to be low, especially when proper hygiene practices are followed. COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread through contact with surfaces contaminated with the virus, but the likelihood of transmission through a small cut or wound is significantly lower.

In your situation, where you have a minor injury on your finger and have been in contact with the public, it is essential to consider a few factors. First, the immediate washing and sanitizing of your hands after potential exposure is a critical step in preventing infection. Hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of transmitting viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. If you washed your hands thoroughly with soap and water or used an alcohol-based hand sanitizer immediately after contact, you significantly reduced the risk of any virus entering your wound.

Regarding the specific concern about the wound itself, while it is true that any open cut can be a potential entry point for pathogens, the transmission of COVID-19 through such a route is not well-documented. The virus primarily requires access to mucous membranes, such as those found in the respiratory tract, to establish an infection. The presence of a wound does not inherently increase the risk of COVID-19 infection unless there is direct contact with respiratory secretions or contaminated surfaces that have been in contact with the virus.

As for whether you should get tested for COVID-19, it is generally recommended to consider testing if you develop symptoms associated with the virus, such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, or if you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. If you remain asymptomatic and have practiced good hygiene, immediate testing may not be necessary. However, if you have concerns or if your symptoms change, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable.

In addition to COVID-19, it is also important to monitor your finger for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. If you notice any of these symptoms, it would be wise to seek medical attention to prevent complications, such as cellulitis or other infections.

In summary, while the risk of COVID-19 infection through a minor finger wound is low, maintaining good hygiene practices is crucial. If you experience any symptoms or have concerns about your wound, consulting with a healthcare provider is the best course of action.

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