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hep c from barbershop
Hi Dr.,
Today during my haircut, the barber was using the comb in a very rough manner. She snagged a pimple on my scalp causing it to break open and bleed.
I am concerned about possible HCV transmission. I am immunized for HBV.
Do you consider this incident a risk for Hep C transmission? Do you recommend getting tested for Hepatitis C because of this incident (and if so, when)? Or can I with good conscience forget about this incident and move on?
Today during my haircut, the barber was using the comb in a very rough manner. She snagged a pimple on my scalp causing it to break open and bleed.
I am concerned about possible HCV transmission. I am immunized for HBV.
Do you consider this incident a risk for Hep C transmission? Do you recommend getting tested for Hepatitis C because of this incident (and if so, when)? Or can I with good conscience forget about this incident and move on?
Hmm, okay so I am being paranoid. I will admit that. I actually meant to post the question on the physician forum. Thanks for the comments and for the ribbing. Take care.
What is the deal with all of these barber shop questions? Suddenly barbershops are THE place to catch HCV.
No, you have nothing to worry about. There would have had to be infected, fluid blood on the comb at the time it broke your pimple open, and it would have had to flow INTO your blood stream.. which would be kind of hard to do at the same time the pimple was bleeding OUT.
Diane
PS back in the days when I used to be a hair dresser, we always put our combs in a Barbicide jar between clients or the health department would pitch a fit, I imagine that requirement is still there.
Diane
PS back in the days when I used to be a hair dresser, we always put our combs in a Barbicide jar between clients or the health department would pitch a fit, I imagine that requirement is still there.
"my scalp causing it to break open and bleed... I am concerned about possible HCV transmission... can I with good conscience forget about this incident and move on?"
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Have you warned your barber that you don't know your hcv status, so that she could discard the comb she used on you? Have you suggested that she undergo testing since she was accidentally exposed to blood? If not, perhaps pointing out to her that you broke open and bled, the possible risks of infectious disease, and suggesting she get tested for her peace of mind will help you move on.
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Have you warned your barber that you don't know your hcv status, so that she could discard the comb she used on you? Have you suggested that she undergo testing since she was accidentally exposed to blood? If not, perhaps pointing out to her that you broke open and bled, the possible risks of infectious disease, and suggesting she get tested for her peace of mind will help you move on.
Unless you were sharing needles with your barber and she has hep c. You are not at risk.
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