Just need to know

[HelpNeeded223]

Hello All,

Thank you for helping people like me on this forum,  I have a question regarding transmission of Hep C via blood on my hands.  I was working on a job (I do construction) and was using tools with another guy on the site.  While I was working I looked over at the other worker and he was bleeding from his hand (Not needing stiches but quite a large amount of blood) he just kept working like that. I then looked down and there was wet blood all over my hand (His blood was on the tools.  After I seen it I went and washed it off with soap and water. I did not have any "Open" bleeding cuts that I know of, if anything a hangnail.  My question is if he was to have HCV would I be at any risk from what I described.

God Bless

[hrsepwrguy]

Good one, very funny :)

[suezeeque]

Wow, if my employer knew I'd had my hands on a coworker's tool while on the clock, I'd be in for a visit with HR for sure!

Whether or not it's a personnel policy, it's a good personal policy.  Don't touch a coworker's tool no matter how clean you think it might be.

:)

[Lifenet62]

See ur Dr and tell him or her what transpired. There is a gestation period for the virus to appear accutely, find out when you can do a full CBC (blood workup INCLUDING Hep a Hep b and Hep C as well as HIV/ Aids. You'll sleep better and know the truth rather than make yourself nuts. Best of luck and btw, great question and cincern for your welfare. Good job.

[HelpNeeded223]

Not sure if he has Hep C.  I was not bleeding myself and have not been hurt on my hands in weeks, Just some dry skin and maybe a non bleeding hang nail.

Last Question

Thanks Guys

[copyman]

Do yourself a favor, assume everyone has HCV or any number of other diseases transmitted via blood. Take necessary precautions. Not saying your exposure was a big risk but in this day and age, better safe then sorry, especially with blood.

[HelpNeeded223]

Not sure if he has Hep C.  I was not bleeding myself and have not been hurt on my hands in weeks, Just some dry skin and maybe a non bleeding hang nail.

[HectorSF]

First - he would have to have hepatitis C. Approximately 1.8 percent of the United States' population has been infected with HCV at the most. so the chances are very low.

Second - Since hepatitis C is most efficiency transmitted from the infected persons blood into the blood of another person...and you said you had no open wounds, you then have no chance of being infected.

So there was pretty much no risk.
Next time tell your co-worker to tend to his wounds before continuing to work. Better yet get your own tools!

Hector

[James10500]

Only if you feel the blood could have gotten in you bloodstream.  Does the guy have hep C.