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Does The Use Of Unknown Contaminated Water At A Public Place Increase The Risk Of Contracting HIV?
Question: Sir I had a mouth ulcer. Today in a public party I washed my hands and mouth from the water in a drum( I was not sure whether the water in that drum was good or polluted because it was dark). Later I realised that if that water was contaminated by any person having HIV then do I have any chance of infection because I had mouth ulcer and that water touched it ???? I know I should not use that type of water to which I am not sure whether it was meant for hand & mouth wash or Not, but I did it in a hurry. Please help me.
Brief Answer:
risk is there
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
If the water was contaminated by blood or body secretions of infected person then there is definite risk .
But the risk of transmission is very very less .
Now instead of taking stress just go for lab test as viral load and p 24 antigen .
These tests will be positive after 1 week from exposure .
And one thing more that are you sure that the water was infected ?
Anyway risk is very very less but if you are sure then go for testing .
With regards dr varinder XXXXXXX
risk is there
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
If the water was contaminated by blood or body secretions of infected person then there is definite risk .
But the risk of transmission is very very less .
Now instead of taking stress just go for lab test as viral load and p 24 antigen .
These tests will be positive after 1 week from exposure .
And one thing more that are you sure that the water was infected ?
Anyway risk is very very less but if you are sure then go for testing .
With regards dr varinder XXXXXXX
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
No sir I am not sure that the water was infected or not.
Brief Answer:
follow-up
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Then firstly, I'd suggest getting the viral load checked in your blood.
Viral load is positive after one week of infection.
If you are too concerned then go for postexposure prophylaxis.
It will be available in ART or AIDS control center in your area.
Even though the risk of HIV infection is very very less but instead of taking undue stress go ahead with tests.
Also, start any good over the counter multivitamin antioxidant combination.
Best wishes.
If you have more queries you are welcome, I will help you further.
With regards
Dr Varinder Joshi
follow-up
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Then firstly, I'd suggest getting the viral load checked in your blood.
Viral load is positive after one week of infection.
If you are too concerned then go for postexposure prophylaxis.
It will be available in ART or AIDS control center in your area.
Even though the risk of HIV infection is very very less but instead of taking undue stress go ahead with tests.
Also, start any good over the counter multivitamin antioxidant combination.
Best wishes.
If you have more queries you are welcome, I will help you further.
With regards
Dr Varinder Joshi
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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