HIV infection via poison ivy sore

[healthwatcher]

I recently was at a dance club in mexico.  During the visit my index finger which had poison ivy on it and was a bit irritated was partilly inserted into a dancers vagina.  I did notice that vaginal fluids were present and washed my hands soon after the incident.  

I have read other postings about HIV through "fingering" but wanted to ask this question as I am very concerned that the poison ivy/rash may put me at higher or significant risk?

Thank you.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

I cannot imagine why a poison ivy rash would increase the risk any higher than any other cut or lesion on the exposed finger, but of course there is no specific information on this.  The risk is low enough to be considered zero; I do not consider fingering to be a risk of HIV, ever, regardless of lesions on hands.

HHH, MD

[Willl]

When you say "ever"; if there were menstrual blood, a woman known to be infected with HIV, would this not constitute exposure to un-intact skin (non-documented, minimal, yet plausible risk)?

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Of course there might be some hypothetical slight increased risk, but I can't take the time to clarify every answer with such clarifications.

Forum users should apply common sense and never interpret any of my comments with this level of nuance.  True black/white or always/never assurances rarely are valid in biology, medicine, or HIV risk analysis.  (Please do not use this statement to challenge various things I might have said in response to particular questions.  I won't get into such debates or second guessing.)

HHH, MD

[Willl]

Sorry, I won't note any future nuances.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Don't take it personally.  It was intended broadly, which is why I included "Everyone" in my response.

HHH, MD