Is my child at risk?

[turtlewoman]

My 3 1/2 year old came home from pre-school last month with what appeared to be a few specs (size of a dot made my a fine point pin) on his forehead of blood.  I asked my child and he said a little girl had a nosebleed.  I called the teacher and they said it was a nosebleed and they did not see any blood on any of the children.  I am pretty sure this was blood on my child, even though it was such a small amount.  I did call the Director of his school and she said she knew the little girl and her history and knows she is "safe".  My concern still lies in "what if this child had HIV or Hep C?"... is this a risk for my child? The thing that has alarmed me is the fact his eyes are very close to these specs of blood.... what if some got in his eye? Does anyone know how much blood would have to be present or if it is just unlikely for a child to even have Hep C.  My pediatrician was not concerned about HIV... he said the child would be very sickly at 3.... he was only slightly concerned about Hep B, but since my child has been vaccinated he is no longer even concerned.  He said he wasn't concerned with Hep C, b/c he had never seen a child with HepC in his 20 years of practice. HELP.... I need some advice! Am I just overreacting or is this a legit concern?  I know my child will probably come into contact with other kids blood many times in his life (sports,  playground, McDonalds play areas, etc)....I can't run out and have him tested each time. I appreciate your thoughts!

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Unless your child has an open wound where his own blood would be exposed to the foreign blood, it would be extremely unlikely that HIV or hepatitis C would be transmitted this way.  If the girl does not have hepatitis nor HIV, then the changes even more miniscule.  

Finally, if there continues to be concern, you could always obtain diagnostic testing for hepatitis and HIV to be 100% sure.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[tessa0825]

Just from one Mother (and grandmother) to another, I think you are probably overreacting but thats what us mom's do..We are known for it! You right when you say that during his school life he will many times come into contact with other childrens blood and probably a few other such things as well.....

My son was in boxing in high school and college and even at 31 he still boxes. I can't even count the number of times he has had other peoples blood on him...

If you spoke with his pediatrician and he sees no need to worry then I would probably take his advise..Calm down and see what Dr. Pho advises to do....Good luck,
Tessa