I was in Atlanta for a football game. A homeless man proceeded to approach me and my friend while we were waiting to get inside restaurant. I talked to him for about 5 minutes, then he shook my hand. He proceeded to tell me after he shook my hand that he was HIV positive. To make matters worse, I had cut my hand that he shook probably 7-10 days before the trip so I wouldn t say it was all the way healed. I proceeded to skip the line for the restaurant and washed my hands for at least 20 minutes. I didn t even stay to eat I just left immediately to CVS and got peroxide and boiled my hand. I am constantly worrying because I have never had sex or used a needle that was not administered by a doctor. What are the likelihoods I have contracted the HIV virus? Please help
hi thanks for writing in to hcm. Firstly kindly relax. even though you have had a cut , unless the person's infected blood or body fluid reaches your system through blood transfusion or cuts during surgical procedures or sexual contact, you are safe. AIDS virus per se does not spread through hand shake or kissing or having meals with them. If you are still paranoid and worried you can consult a physician. Take care.. Dr. Aseem Rai
I find this answer helpful
You found this answer helpful
Note: Get personalized answers to your HIV related queries You can choose to talk face to face with your doctor. Book a Video Call now.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
We use cookies in order to offer you most relevant experience and using this website you acknowledge that you have already read and understood our
Privacy Policy
What Are The Symptoms And Treatment For HIV?
hi thanks for writing in to hcm. Firstly kindly relax. even though you have had a cut , unless the person s infected blood or body fluid reaches your system through blood transfusion or cuts during surgical procedures or sexual contact, you are safe. AIDS virus per se does not spread through hand shake or kissing or having meals with them. If you are still paranoid and worried you can consult a physician. Take care.. Dr. Aseem Rai