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Am I at risk of HIV after exposure to unsterilized tools?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had severe throat inflammation and went to an ENT (Otolaryngologist) doctor. At that time, he was with a HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) patient who has sore throat and ulcers. He used a spoon like equipment to check the throat of the HIV patient. The spoon like equipment is contaminated. Unfortunately, the doctor used the same spoon like equipment on me without sterilizing the equipment. I already have severe throat inflammation. I am worried whether I will get HIV. Please help me.

Hi, welcome to icliniq.com.

Most of the doctors sterilize the equipment in a solution that is kept on their examination desk. You have not mentioned the time duration between exposure and the onset of symptoms, though HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) does not cause throat inflammation as a presenting symptom. Still, you may need to get an HIV DNA (human immunodeficiency virus deoxyribonucleic acid) or RNA PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test done to rule out any chance of acquiring an infection.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Is there any chance of spreading HIV through saliva if saliva of a HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infected person enters into the mouth of an uninfected person?

Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) can be transmitted via saliva.

Medically reviewed byDr. Hemalatha

Published At May 27, 2016
Reviewed AtJune 26, 2025

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