Can You Get HIV from a Used Needle During Anonymous Testing?

I would like to ask the doctor if this could lead to an HIV infection?

A few days ago, I underwent anonymous HIV testing, and the result was negative.
However, I was very nervous during the test and did not pay attention to whether the blood draw needle was new.
I would like to ask the doctor: if the testing personnel themselves have HIV and previously applied their own blood to the needle, then used that needle to perform the test on me, with about 1-2 minutes from the time they created the wound to when they pricked me, is it possible for me to contract HIV in this scenario?

Xiao K, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/15

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine

A.
First, refer to the relevant information from the Centers for Disease Control: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/Page/lehLY2EFku4q7Gqv4bql2w.
For example, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): * Sexual transmission: Engaging in sexual activities such as oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infection.
* Blood transmission: (1) Receiving or coming into contact with blood or blood products contaminated with HIV.
(2) Sharing needles, syringes, or diluents with individuals who are injecting drug users and are HIV-positive.
(3) Receiving an organ transplant from an HIV-infected donor.
* Vertical transmission from mother to child: Infants can acquire HIV from their infected mothers during pregnancy, childbirth, or through breastfeeding.
B.
According to Article 21 of the "Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection Control and Patient Rights Protection Act," if a person knows they are HIV-positive and engages in the aforementioned behaviors, they are subject to penalties.
Specifically, if they conceal their status and engage in high-risk sexual behavior or share needles, diluents, or containers, resulting in transmission to another person, they may face imprisonment for a term of five to twelve years.
C.
If there are still questions or concerns, further consultation and screening can be conducted at medical institutions.

Reply Date: 2022/07/15

More Info

When it comes to the transmission of HIV, understanding the risks associated with various scenarios is crucial. In your case, you are concerned about the possibility of contracting HIV from a used needle during anonymous testing. Let's break down the situation based on established medical knowledge.

Firstly, HIV is primarily transmitted through specific routes: unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles or syringes, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. The virus does not survive long outside the human body, and it is particularly sensitive to environmental conditions. When blood is exposed to air, the virus quickly becomes inactive, making transmission through contaminated surfaces or objects highly unlikely.

In the scenario you described, if a healthcare worker were to use a needle that had previously been used on someone else, the risk of HIV transmission would depend on several factors:
1. Time Since Last Use: HIV does not survive well outside the human body. If the needle had been used previously, the likelihood of the virus being viable on the needle after 1-2 minutes is extremely low. The virus would begin to degrade rapidly once exposed to air.

2. Blood Volume: For transmission to occur, there needs to be a sufficient quantity of HIV present in the blood. If the healthcare worker had HIV, the amount of blood on the needle would also play a significant role in the risk of transmission. A small amount of dried blood is unlikely to contain enough viable virus to cause infection.

3. Skin Integrity: The condition of your skin at the site of the injection is also important. If the skin is intact and healthy, the risk of HIV entering the bloodstream is significantly reduced. If there were any cuts or abrasions, the risk could be slightly higher, but still very low given the circumstances.

4. Healthcare Protocols: In most healthcare settings, strict protocols are in place to prevent the reuse of needles and to ensure that all equipment is sterile. It is standard practice to use new, sterile needles for each patient. If you were in a legitimate testing facility, it is highly unlikely that they would use a needle that had been previously used.

Given these factors, the likelihood of contracting HIV from a used needle in the scenario you described is exceedingly low. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations emphasize that the risk of HIV transmission through healthcare settings is minimal when proper protocols are followed.

If you are still feeling anxious about your risk, it may be beneficial to discuss your concerns with a healthcare professional. They can provide reassurance and, if necessary, conduct further testing to ensure your peace of mind. Remember, regular testing and practicing safe behaviors are key components of maintaining your health and well-being.

In conclusion, while it is natural to feel anxious about potential exposure to HIV, the specific scenario you described carries a very low risk of transmission. If you have further concerns or experience any symptoms, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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