Concerns About Blood Infections from Acupuncture and Electrotherapy
Blood infection After acupuncture, if there are small wounds on the body, is there a concern for bloodborne infections when using electrodes for electrical stimulation and reusing cupping jars? Is there a risk of hepatitis B and HIV transmission?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, as long as the acupuncture needles are not reused and other treatment methods are followed, there should not be a risk of bloodborne infections. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Concerns About Blood Infections from Acupuncture and Electrotherapy
Concerns About Infection After Beach Cleanup: What You Need to Know
Infection concerns? Hello, I recently participated in a beach cleanup event, and after it ended, I noticed a red spot on the top of my foot. The spot is not bleeding, and I'm unsure if it was caused by a needle on the beach or an insect bite. I would like to know if, in this...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, unless it is confirmed that you have been punctured, based on your description, it is unlikely that you will be infected with any specific pathogens. You should monitor your body for any fever or discomfort, as well as observe the condition of any red spots. If you experie...[Read More] Concerns About Infection After Beach Cleanup: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Needle Stick Injuries in the Operating Room
Stung by a thorn? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about an incident that occurred while I was working in the operating room. That day, a very small suture needle was left on the table, and while collecting instruments, I accidentally pressed on the needle. I was wearing glo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is indeed difficult to determine the likelihood of infection based on your description. In clinical practice, if there is any suspicion of a needlestick injury similar to your situation, we typically follow the needlestick protocol to assess the risk of infection. Thank...[Read More] Concerns About Needle Stick Injuries in the Operating Room
Assessing HIV Infection Risk from Minor Injuries and Oral Symptoms
Risk of HIV Infection On October 1st, I noticed a small amount of unknown blood on my right big toe. I'm not sure if it was from someone who dripped it on the ground or if I stepped on it, as I didn't feel anything and didn't notice anyone nearby bleeding. However,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description of the wound on your foot, it is unlikely that it has led to an HIV infection. The symptoms you described are not indicative of HIV, so there is no need for you to undergo specific testing at this time. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risk from Minor Injuries and Oral Symptoms
Can STDs Spread Through Shared Laundry? Understanding the Risks
Questions about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) If a person with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) has their clothing contaminated with bodily fluids such as semen, and these clothes are washed together with others in a washing machine using a mild detergent without b...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, you mentioned that the situation does not pose a risk of sexually transmitted infections, including syphilis, HIV, or genital warts, and that they are unlikely to be transmitted. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can STDs Spread Through Shared Laundry? Understanding the Risks
Can You Contract HIV from Blood or Saliva Contact Without Open Wounds?
HIV infection Hello doctor, I have bruising on my hand but no external injury. If I come into contact with a cup containing the blood of an HIV-positive patient or saliva, can I contract HIV?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned does not lead to contracting HIV. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from Blood or Saliva Contact Without Open Wounds?
Understanding Internal Itching: Causes and Solutions After Diagnosis
It feels itchy inside the body? Since the third day after being diagnosed, I have not had a fever, but I feel an internal itch throughout my body. It's very uncomfortable and hard to describe; I feel the need to keep moving to feel a bit better. Even before going to sleep at...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is true that some individuals may experience skin rashes due to COVID-19, although the likelihood is low. I would like to know if you are currently taking any medications, as it may be necessary to rule out drug or food allergies. If there are none, then it could be att...[Read More] Understanding Internal Itching: Causes and Solutions After Diagnosis
Understanding Infection Risks: HIV Exposure and Safety Precautions
Infection issues Hello doctor, a few days ago I asked you some questions: 1. You mentioned that the chance of infection from being splashed with blood containing the HIV virus in the eyes, nose, or mouth with an open wound is low. Does this mean that if I accidentally get splashe...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. On one hand, the infectiousness through this route is low, and on the other hand, the immune system can clear it. 2. It will not. 3. This will not cause an infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks: HIV Exposure and Safety Precautions
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Common Questions Answered
HIV infection issues Hello Doctor: 1. I would like to ask, there are articles stating that HIV in blood quickly becomes inactive when exposed to air. If someone with a bleeding hand sprays blood into my eyes, nasal cavity, or mouth, especially if I have an open wound, is there ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The chance of infection should be low. 2. Yes. 3. The likelihood is very low. 4. This is not a mode of transmission. 5. You will not be infected. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Common Questions Answered
Understanding HIV Infection Risks from Contaminated Utensils and Water
HIV infection If you have small cuts on your hands and are washing utensils that have been used by someone else, there is a risk of HIV infection if those utensils have saliva or blood from the other person. Additionally, if the other person has a wound that comes into contact wi...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the two situations you mentioned do not carry any risk of infection. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding HIV Infection Risks from Contaminated Utensils and Water
Understanding HIV Risks After Brief Unprotected Sex: What You Need to Know
Fear of contracting HIV? Hello, I had sexual intercourse with a sex worker (female) on October 4th. During the encounter, I may have become too excited and removed the condom for about one minute. I had previously met with the same person, and during that encounter, we both insis...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. If safe sex practices are followed, the chances of transmission are low. 2. However, there are over thirty types of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), all of which are transmitted through contact; remember to maintain hand hygiene to avoid infection.[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks After Brief Unprotected Sex: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Infection from a Stranger: HIV and Hepatitis Risks
Questions about infection from strangers? Hello Doctor, after class today, while I was checking out at a convenience store, a stranger suddenly pushed past me to throw away his aluminum drink. It seemed like he had finished drinking outside and brought it in to dispose of it. I n...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that there are suspected scratch marks on your hand, but no obvious wounds have been caused. In this case, there is no risk of contracting HIV or hepatitis B or C, so please do not worry. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Infection from a Stranger: HIV and Hepatitis Risks
Assessing HIV Risk After Unprotected Oral and Protected Sex: Your Questions Answered
HIV transmission issues? On October 6, I had sexual intercourse with a sex worker, which included unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse. The female sex worker cleaned my penis before we engaged in further activities. During the encounter, we also kissed and had u...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, due to the risk of infection from unsafe sexual practices, it is currently recommended to follow up for at least three months. If all tests are negative, it will be considered safer. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Assessing HIV Risk After Unprotected Oral and Protected Sex: Your Questions Answered
Is Ankylosing Spondylitis a Severe Risk Factor for COVID-19?
Is ankylosing spondylitis a risk factor for severe disease? Hello Doctor, my son is 19 years old and has ankylosing spondylitis. I have some questions to ask you. 1) There are many risk factors for severe COVID-19, one of which is "diseases affecting immune function (such ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) There are many risk factors for severe COVID-19, one of which is "diseases affecting immune function (HIV infection, congenital immunodeficiency, solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, use of ste...[Read More] Is Ankylosing Spondylitis a Severe Risk Factor for COVID-19?
Is Ankylosing Spondylitis a Severe Risk Factor for COVID-19?
Is ankylosing spondylitis a risk factor for severe illness? Additional question? Hello Doctor, I apologize for the follow-up question regarding the issue I asked yesterday (#187270). I would like to ask you: My child has been taking 2 tablets of Salbutamol daily for the past six ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Broadly speaking, I believe it is. In a narrower sense, having a smaller quantity of two can also be considered as not being so. I tend to lean towards the broader definition. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hos...[Read More] Is Ankylosing Spondylitis a Severe Risk Factor for COVID-19?
Do Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Need Antiviral Drugs for COVID-19?
Do patients with ankylosing spondylitis who are diagnosed with COVID-19 need to take antiviral medication? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I would like to ask you: 1) If a patient with ankylosing spondylitis is diagnosed with COVID-19, what are the gover...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding the second risk factor, one of the conditions is diseases that affect immune function (such as HIV infection, congenital immunodeficiency, solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and the use of corticosteroids or other immunosuppressants). Therefo...[Read More] Do Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Need Antiviral Drugs for COVID-19?
Do Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Need Antiviral Medications for COVID-19?
Is antiviral medication needed for stiffness? Additional inquiry? Hello Doctor, below the line is the doctor's response from this morning. I would like to confirm with the doctor regarding the second point. Does the doctor's reply mean that "not all patients with a...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, yes, it is important to check if there are any relevant medications being taken (such as immunosuppressants) that could affect immune function, as these would be considered significant risk factors. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Do Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Need Antiviral Medications for COVID-19?
Are Home Rapid Tests Reliable? Understanding Infection Risks After a Year
Rapid testing for infection issues? I would like to ask if the rapid tests sold online by the health department are accurate. I buy a rapid test almost every month and have been testing for a year now. My last test was two days ago, and it was negative. I would like to know if I ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, are you referring to HIV rapid testing? The accuracy of HIV rapid tests for initial assessment is indeed not as high as that of formal tests conducted in medical institutions. Each rapid test kit may also have varying degrees of accuracy. If you want to confirm your result...[Read More] Are Home Rapid Tests Reliable? Understanding Infection Risks After a Year
Needle Stick Injury: Risks of Bloodborne Infections and Testing Options
Needle-related issues Dear Dr. Hong, I am a nurse at a hospital, and a few days ago, I accidentally experienced a needle stick injury while on the intensive care unit. I have already followed the protocol for screening for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. However, I am still very...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the conditions you mentioned are mostly sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and are not transmitted through needle stick injuries. The primary diseases associated with needle stick injuries are HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C. It is recommended to follow the needle...[Read More] Needle Stick Injury: Risks of Bloodborne Infections and Testing Options
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 ointme...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
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 infec...[Read More] Concerns About Infection After Blood Test and Allergic Reaction