the Risks of Finger Contact and STIs: HIV, HPV, and Syphilis

Q: the Risks of Finger Contact and STIs: HIV, HPV, and Syphilis

Anonymous： Hello, it is important to check if the owner has an infection. <br>If the owner does not have an infection, then there is obviously no risk of transmission. <br>Additionally, if there are any cuts or abrasions on the hands, the risk of infection increases. <br>Furtherm

Finger contact and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Hello Dr.
Hsu,
I would like to inquire about the risks of finger contact with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV, HPV, and syphilis.
I work in a cleaning-related job.
Today, while cleaning dirt off a wall in a public place, I noticed a dark red bump that I removed with my finger.
I also found a hair of unknown origin on the wall and picked it up with my finger.
The dark red bump appeared to be blood-stained nasal mucus.
I did not wear gloves, but I am certain that my hands did not have any bleeding wounds.

My questions are as follows:
1.
Is there a risk of contracting HIV or other STIs (syphilis, HPV) from picking at blood-stained nasal mucus with my finger?
2.
Is there a risk of contracting HIV or other STIs (syphilis, HPV) from touching hair of unknown origin with my finger?
3.
Are there any documented cases of HIV or other STIs (syphilis, HPV) transmission due to these actions (picking at blood-stained nasal mucus and touching hair of unknown origin)?
I kindly ask for your clarification, thank you.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/05/06

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Anonymous: Hello, it is important to check if the owner has an infection.
If the owner does not have an infection, then there is obviously no risk of transmission.
Additionally, if there are any cuts or abrasions on the hands, the risk of infection increases.
Furthermore, blood on the wall is more likely to pose a risk if it is wet; dried blood is less likely to harbor viable viruses.
If you are still concerned, you can have a blood test done after three months.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Responses on the internet should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/05/06

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks associated with potential exposure to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) through finger contact, it is essential to consider several factors, including the nature of the exposure, the presence of any wounds, and the characteristics of the viruses involved.

1. Risk of Infection from Contact with Blood: In your scenario, you mentioned that you used your fingers to scrape off what appeared to be a blood-stained substance from a wall. The primary concern here is whether the blood contained HIV or other pathogens. HIV is primarily transmitted through specific bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. However, it is important to note that HIV is a fragile virus that does not survive long outside the human body. Once exposed to air, the virus rapidly loses its ability to infect, typically within minutes. Therefore, the risk of contracting HIV from contact with dried blood on a surface is extremely low, especially if there are no open wounds on your hands.

2. Contact with Unknown Hair: Regarding your second question about touching an unknown hair, the risk of contracting HIV or other STIs from this action is negligible. STIs are not transmitted through casual contact with hair or surfaces. The transmission of STIs generally requires direct contact with infected bodily fluids or mucous membranes. Since hair does not carry infectious agents in a manner that would facilitate transmission, this action does not pose a risk for HIV, HPV, or syphilis.

3. Cases of Infection from Similar Scenarios: To date, there have been no documented cases of HIV or other STIs being transmitted through the types of contact you described—scraping dried blood from a surface or touching hair. The transmission of HIV typically occurs through more direct routes, such as unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.

In summary, while it is always prudent to be cautious and practice good hygiene, the specific actions you described do not present a significant risk for HIV or other STIs. If you have any concerns about potential exposure to infections, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and, if necessary, testing. Regular screenings and practicing safe hygiene can help mitigate risks and provide peace of mind.

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