Can You Get HIV from Contact with Infected Blood or Semen?
Exposure to HIV infection If intact skin (without any wounds) comes into contact with the blood or semen of an HIV-infected individual, is there a risk of HIV infection?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, the HIV virus dies outside the human body after more than ten minutes and is no longer infectious. 2. Therefore, unless the patient is irregular with their medication and we come into contact with them while having an open bleeding wound, there is a chance of infection.[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Contact with Infected Blood or Semen?
Understanding Oral Symptoms and HIV Concerns After Unprotected Sex
Oral symptoms raising suspicion for HIV? Hello Doctor: Nine weeks ago, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a sex worker (two minutes of unprotected vaginal intercourse and three minutes of oral sex performed on her). About three weeks later, I experienced unexplained nasal ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control data, there are three main transmission routes for HIV: (A) 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. (B) Bl...[Read More] Understanding Oral Symptoms and HIV Concerns After Unprotected Sex
Understanding PEP: Testing Accuracy and HIV Exposure Concerns
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and Screening Hello, doctor. I have been worried for a long time, and there are various opinions on the internet. I would like to ask you: I had a sexual encounter previously and am concerned whether the condom broke. Within 24 hours, the doctor pr...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. There is a "window period" for HIV infection testing, which is the time after infection when the virus is present but cannot be detected by tests. This window period is approximately 3 to 12 weeks after HIV infection. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is generally reco...[Read More] Understanding PEP: Testing Accuracy and HIV Exposure Concerns
Can Needle Sticks at the Beach Lead to HIV Infection?
Needle puncture issues Doctor, I would like to inquire about something. With summer approaching, we sometimes see syringes and needles at the beach or shore. If I accidentally get pricked or step on one, could this lead to HIV infection? Thank you.
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
The HIV virus is difficult to survive in general environments, but it is still necessary to seek medical attention for blood tests to check for diseases transmitted through blood and bodily fluids.[Read More] Can Needle Sticks at the Beach Lead to HIV Infection?
Understanding HIV Test Results: What to Expect and When to Be Notified
HIV testing issues? On June 5th, I had blood tests done at the provincial hospital, and the health record showed the following urine general examination and syphilis test items: - Treponema pallidum antibody test - Bacterial culture identification test (including general bacteri...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
For HIV-related inquiries, please contact the Infectious Diseases Department. If this is regarding health check-up items, please call the Health Management Center or the Laboratory Department.[Read More] Understanding HIV Test Results: What to Expect and When to Be Notified
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks and Skin Care for Psoriasis
HIV transmission issues Dear Dr. Liao, I do not engage in any high-risk behaviors, but I have psoriasis that causes redness and peeling of the skin on my limbs (sometimes I scratch until I break the skin or cause cracks due to itching). Does this condition increase my risk of in...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, the transmission routes of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are as follows: 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluid...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks and Skin Care for Psoriasis
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection in Unsanitary Environments
Risk of HIV Infection Hello, doctor: I have a concern that I would like to ask you about. During my middle school years, the tutoring center environment was quite poor; there were very few restrooms, and the design might have been problematic, as there was often a puddle of urine...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, there is basically no risk! HIV is primarily transmitted through contact with blood, bodily fluids, and mucous membranes, mainly through sexual intercourse. The viral load in urine is very low, and splashes that come into contact with the skin typically do not pose a trans...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection in Unsanitary Environments
Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Contact with a Sex Worker
Concerned about the risk of HIV infection? On April 29, I had contact with a sex worker, and there was no unsafe sexual behavior throughout the encounter. 1. The other party performed manual stimulation on me (using lubricant), and after ejaculation, they wiped with tissue. Is th...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. It is not considered a high-risk behavior; simply consult and follow up with a nearby medical facility. 2. If you still have concerns, please adhere to safe sexual practices and avoid sharing drugs.[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Contact with a Sex Worker
Understanding HIV Test Results: What Do Changes in Numbers Mean?
HIV testing issues Hello Doctor: In May 2022, I had high-risk sexual behavior, but I did not engage in any sexual activity for the following seven months. In December 2022, feeling anxious, I went for an HIV blood test, and the result was 0.19. I had sexual activity again in Janu...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. A general positive result is greater than 1, so values less than 1 do not need to be overly concerned. 2. If six months have passed, there is no need for further follow-up; however, if there are still risky behaviors, recalculation is necessary.[Read More] Understanding HIV Test Results: What Do Changes in Numbers Mean?
Can Wearing a Used Bracelet Increase HIV Infection Risk?
Concerns about the risk of HIV infection? Hello, doctor! A few years ago, I purchased a clasp-style bracelet from a small online seller (which seems to have gone out of business since). After I put it on, I accidentally pinched the skin on my arm, which was very painful and cause...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to indicate an HIV infection. However, if you are feeling very uncomfortable, you may consider getting tested for HIV. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Wearing a Used Bracelet Increase HIV Infection Risk?
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Shared Soap in Hotels
Risk of HIV Infection Hello Doctor: I would like to ask you about an anxiety issue I have. Many years ago, while traveling with classmates and staying at a hotel, I forgot to bring my bathing supplies. I mistakenly thought there was soap on the soap dish, so I applied it to my bo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned does not pose a risk of HIV infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Shared Soap in Hotels
Understanding HIV Infection Risks and Testing: Your Questions Answered
Risk of HIV Infection Hello Doctor, I apologize for having two questions to ask you: 1. I once shared a bowl of ice with a friend of a friend (someone I don't know at all). If both parties had open sores in their mouths, is there a risk of HIV infection? Is there a need for ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you described does not pose a risk for HIV infection, so there is no need for HIV testing. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding HIV Infection Risks and Testing: Your Questions Answered
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Blood Exposure
Blood infection Hello Dr. Hong: I apologize for bothering you. Today, when I went to change my sanitary pad, I wrapped the used one and placed it on top of the tissue box. When I was about to throw it away, I thought to myself that I wasn't sure if it was mine, so I careless...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to result in an HIV infection, so there is no need for post-exposure prophylaxis at this time. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Blood Exposure
Is It Possible to Still Be HIV Infected After a Year?
Is it still possible to be infected with HIV? A year ago, I had unprotected oral sex with a woman. Afterward, I was worried about HIV infection, so I went to Cheng Kung University for a blood test at the tenth week. During the follow-up appointment, the doctor said everything was...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the chance of infection is indeed very low. If you are still very concerned, you may consider getting retested. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Is It Possible to Still Be HIV Infected After a Year?
Understanding HIV and STI Risks: Safe Practices and Concerns
Risk of HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Hello doctor, I visited the obstetrics and gynecology department today. Whenever I know an internal examination is needed, I wear disposable underwear. However, today when I threw away the disposable underwear, I accide...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to result in contracting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding HIV and STI Risks: Safe Practices and Concerns
Risk of HIV Infection from Skin Breaks During Sexual Contact
Inquiry about HIV infection? If there is a broken skin in the groin area and sexual intercourse occurs with a sex worker, is there a risk of infection if the broken skin comes into contact with vaginal fluids?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding the depth of the wound, deeper lacerations do carry certain risks. If you are unable to confirm the situation, it is advisable to undergo sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Skin Breaks During Sexual Contact
Can You Get HIV from a Sharp Object Injury? Prevention Options Explained
HIV infection While cleaning up in the sink, I suspect I was cut on my finger by a sharp object like a toothpick from a customer, causing bleeding (the object should not have had any blood on it). The customer was here about 10 minutes ago. Is there a risk of HIV infection from t...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the likelihood of infection in the situation you mentioned is very low. Unless it is confirmed that the other person has HIV, there should be no need for prophylactic medication. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can You Get HIV from a Sharp Object Injury? Prevention Options Explained
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Shared needles Hello doctor, I recently shared a syringe for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the syringe at least an hour after he did. I've seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minute...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used, so it is crucial never to use needles that have been used by others. The so-called rash typically occurs during the secondary stage of syphilis, which happens approximately six weeks to six m...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Shared needles Hello doctor, I recently shared a needle for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the needle at least an hour after he did. I've seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minutes ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used. Therefore, it is crucial not to use needles that have been used by others. The so-called rash is associated with secondary syphilis, which typically occurs approximately six weeks to six mont...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Sharing needles Hello doctor, I recently shared a needle for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the needle at least an hour after he did. I’ve seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minutes to s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used. Even if it’s just for one minute, there is still a risk of infection. Therefore, never use needles that have been used by someone else. The so-called rash is associated with the secondary sta...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns