Can Hepatitis-C Be Contracted Through Contact With Infected Blood?

Posted on Fri, 11 Dec 2015

Question: Hello, I was taking care of a hep c positive pt and was removing her IV when I felt something flick. I was double gloved and although I think I felt something, I did not see any blood on my arms or face. What are the risk of exposure if a speck of blood were to have hit my lip, eye, or arm?

Answered by Dr. Sheetal Verma (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Negligible risk.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query at the HCM.
I understand your concern and situation.

There have been limited studies, the estimated risk for infection after a needlestick or cut exposure to HCV-infected blood is approximately 1.8%. The risk following a blood splash is unknown but is believed to be very small. So I would advise you not to worry. You can take HCV IgM Antibodies test after 12 weeks.

Take care
Hope I answered your query
Rating and review will be appreciated
Dr Sheetal Verma

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar