Does paper cut from contaminated surfaces cause HIV?

Question

Hello doctor,

I want to ask whether I have got a risk of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection or not from a paper cut in my hand. Where at that time, I did not realize that I got this paper cut and I do not know what activity that caused me got this paper cut. But, I assume that I got this cut by sharp things. However, I am afraid that sharp things surface contain HIV blood and other fluid before I got cut from it. Does that infect you with HIV?

After I realized that I have got that paper cut, I just washed that cut with bottled water and wiped with tissue only. Since at that time and place around me, I did not have any band-aid. I let that paper cut exposed without covering it with anything. Due to that condition, I am afraid that since I let that cut exposed, I would have got exposure from any environmental surfaces that contain HIV+ fluid like blood or fluid.

Does contacting environmental surfaces that contain HIV+ fluid (like blood, etc.) with current paper cuts in hand infect me? Therefore, please answer my question regarding two things: Can I get infected from getting paper cuts from sharp things that contained HIV+ fluid like blood, etc. Can I get infected with HIV from having contact with environmental surfaces that contain HIV+ fluid like blood, etc., with my finger that has been cut?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I completely understand your concerns.

Please note that the beveled edge of paper cuts does not cause HIV infection (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), which is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T-helper cells), which help the body fight infections. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the most advanced stage of the infection, as the paper soaks up all blood within seconds, and the paper is dry.

In a dry medium, no HIV stays alive, so no HIV infection. Your second question is not at all meaningful, as by touch, no HIV is transmitted. It is not the way of transmission. Only sex, blood infusion, or a needle prick is required within seconds when drawing blood from an HIV-positive patient. So, do not worry. You are safe. No HIV infection is present.

I hope this helps.