A lot of blood, a lot of cuts and now a lot of worry

[HyperWorried]

Hello Doctor. I had posted this question in the wrong forum before and a person answered but I had really wanted to hear from a doctor. Over the summer, my friend got several hug gashes and cuts all over and I stupidly helped dress the wounds. I have lots of small cuts on my hands because of work and blood got all over my hands. My friend makes poor life choices so there is a concern about hiv status. I did not worry about this at the time. Five months later, I told someone and they began freaking out about aids. And sure enough, a month or so after this incident I did have the flu. It was a 24 hour flu but still it was there. Now I can't stop thinking about hiv and worrying and every little ache and pain feels like a symptom. Should I get tested?

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Yes.  EWH

[HyperWorried]

Thank you. Is the reassurance factor the only reason you suggest testing?

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Welcome to our Forum.  If I were you, I would not worry. As you were told on the HIV Community site, and despite the theoretical concern that is often expressed, this was a virtually no risk event.  Your friend, despite their unwise decisions, is unlikely to have HIV and even if they did, HIV is just not transmitted through this sort of exposure.  Having said this, if you are concerned, I would suggest getting tested for the assurance that a negative test result will provide you.  EWH