Question
Can I get HIV from a plaster?
19 October 2010. Related: All topics, HIV transmission.
Can you get HIV from a plaster – or someone who just gave blood. This may sound stupid but I was in the GUM clinic and a girl had her blood taken she kept ripping her plaster on and off. I am worried the blood might have flicked in my eye – is this even possible?
Answer
Thank you for your question.
This question is answer on the i-Base FAQ page on transmission. For other information about HIV transmission please follow this link.
I mean that when something comes towards your eye your reflexes make you blink which is a closed eye. I guess I am basically saying it would be impossible to be in a situation where blood entered your eye and you became infected that way. Please do not worry about this. no-one has ever been infected this way.
Sorry when you say open eye what does that mean?
In theory it is possible to become infected through blood in the eye. However, it would have to be a significant amount of blood in an open eye. There has never been a case of anyone becoming infected this way. You are not at risk of getting HIV the way you described. You do not need another test.
Good afternoon,
Thanks for the very promt answer, i know it is a silly question, but i read on other posts about blood in the eye and its not really a clear answer.
When blood is taken in past experiences it just pors out – but with enough pressure stops bleeding quiet fast!! blood would not just squirt out would it? i guess im more concerned as i over heard her talking and was worried about hiv as well.
Do you think i should re test or just carry on as usual.
Regards