
Have Cut On Hand By Sharp Iron. Washed The Wound And Applied Neosporin. Can I Have HIV Infection?

Thank you for your query.
Well I dont think you are at risk for contracting HIV like this .
Generally the HIV virus does not survive at the room temperature due to its fragile nature so it is very unlikely that it will survive on an iron rod on a road divider.
There is very less likely possibility for this and such kind of transmission has not been reported.
Generally HIV ELISA is used for screening; but these tests are negative in window period so it needs to be done again after 3 months. Some specialised tests like Nucleic acid testing can test positive earlier. So if you wish to undergo tests for HIV and confirm negativity, this information should guide you. Alternatively, you can consult a physician who can guide you about the available options.
Besides thoses I advise you to take tetanus toxoid as that iron could have been rusted.
Wish you good health.
Take care.
Dr. Shruti


Tetanus toxoid is necessary for preventing tetanus infection which can occur due to injuries by rusted iron tools . It has no role in preventing HIV transmission.
Thanks.
Dr. Shruti

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