Concerns About Infection After Blood Test and Allergic Reaction

Hello, I would like to inquire about infection issues?

On the morning of September 3rd, around 10 AM, I had a blood test for a gynecological check-up.
In the afternoon, I noticed itching on the back of my hand.
I went to the pharmacy, explained the situation, and bought an ointment to apply at home, but it worsened.
On September 4th, the itching on my hand became red and swollen.
I returned to the pharmacy, and the pharmacist said I was allergic to the ointment I had applied.
Coincidentally, I had planned a trip to a resort that day, so in the afternoon, I went swimming in the pool and soaked in the hot spring.
Later, I found online that some users mentioned that it takes three days for the injection site from a blood draw to heal before swimming or soaking in hot springs, as there is a risk of viral infections (similar to HIV and sepsis).
Now I am particularly anxious.
Is there a potential risk of infection due to the allergic reaction on my hand and the blood draw wound? The hotel pool did not have a strong chlorine smell and did not seem very clean, and the hot spring also appeared to be unclean.
Am I being overly anxious, or should I seek medical evaluation? If I need to get tested, should I wait three months, or can it be detected sooner?

Miss Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/19

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine

A.
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1.
Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infection.
2.
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 inject drugs and are HIV-positive.
(3) Receiving an organ transplant from an HIV-infected donor.
3.
Vertical transmission from mother to child: Infants can acquire HIV from their infected mothers during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

B.
The information above indicates that the probability of contracting HIV is close to zero; however, if there are wounds present, along with conditions such as diabetes or liver disease, this may lead to slower wound healing and an increased risk of bacterial growth.
If the wound does not heal properly or develops into cellulitis, it is advisable to seek treatment at a nearby medical facility.

Reply Date: 2022/09/19

More Info

Your concerns about potential infections and allergic reactions following a blood test are understandable, especially given the anxiety surrounding health and safety in medical settings. Let's break down your situation and address your worries systematically.

Allergic Reaction to the Ointment
Firstly, it seems that you experienced an allergic reaction to the ointment you applied after your blood test. Allergic reactions can manifest as redness, itching, and swelling, which aligns with your symptoms. It's important to note that allergic reactions can occur even with over-the-counter medications, and the severity can vary from person to person. If the symptoms worsen or do not improve with the cessation of the ointment, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and possibly a different treatment option.

Concerns About Infection
Regarding your concerns about infection from swimming or using a hot spring after a blood draw, it's essential to understand how infections are transmitted and the risks involved:
1. Healing Time: After a blood draw, the puncture site typically heals within a few days. While it's generally advised to avoid submerging the area in water (like swimming pools or hot springs) until it has healed, the risk of infection from a properly performed blood draw is relatively low. The skin acts as a barrier to pathogens, and unless the site is open and actively bleeding, the risk of infection is minimal.

2. Swimming Pools and Hot Springs: Public swimming pools and hot springs can harbor bacteria and viruses, but the likelihood of contracting a serious infection like HIV or sepsis from these environments is very low. HIV, for instance, does not survive long outside the human body and is primarily transmitted through direct blood-to-blood contact or sexual fluids. Similarly, sepsis is typically a result of bacteria entering the bloodstream through an open wound, but again, the risk is significantly reduced if the puncture site is not actively bleeding.

3. Timing for Testing: If you are concerned about potential exposure to infections, it's important to know that most blood-borne infections, including HIV, have a window period during which they may not be detectable. For HIV, it can take up to three months for antibodies to be detectable in the blood. However, if you have specific concerns about exposure or symptoms, consulting with a healthcare provider sooner may provide peace of mind and appropriate testing.

Recommendations
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your allergic reaction. If it worsens or if you develop new symptoms (such as fever, increased redness, or pus at the injection site), seek medical attention promptly.

- Avoid Swimming: Until your skin has healed completely, it might be best to avoid swimming pools and hot springs to minimize any risk of infection.

- Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your anxiety persists or if you have any new symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider. They can assess your situation, provide reassurance, and recommend any necessary tests based on your exposure history and symptoms.

- Testing Timeline: If you are considering testing for blood-borne pathogens, discuss with your healthcare provider the appropriate timing for testing based on your concerns and any potential exposures.

In summary, while your concerns are valid, the actual risk of infection from your recent activities is likely low. However, monitoring your symptoms and consulting with a healthcare provider will help ensure your health and peace of mind.

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