Can HIV spread through cuts on fingers during contact?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am suffering from OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and have a fear of contracting HIV. Recently, I visited a nail studio, and the guy doing my nails had a little sore on his thumb from the drill, and it was bleeding very lightly. While working on my nails, he accidentally cut my cuticle with the drill. It bled lightly like a paper cut and was not bleeding much. I am unsure if the small sore on his thumb came into contact with the small cut on my cuticle. What are the chances of contracting HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) if he was positive and our small cuts touched?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello.

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Practically, in my opinion, the risk appears to be almost nil. The chances of you coming in contact with his infected blood and being HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) positive are nil. If he is HIV-negative, there is no reason for you to worry. If possible, you can confirm his status. Even if blood comes in contact with your open wound and he is HIV infected, the possibility of transmission of HIV is low to almost nil.

If you are too anxious, you can consult your doctor for further risk assessment and the need for PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) must be initiated as early as possible, within 72 hours of risk exposure. I do not see the need for you to worry about PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). You can also consult your psychologist or psychiatrist for counseling for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or anxiety.

I hope I was helpful to you.

Thank you.