About Ian Expertise All aspects of HIV and AIDS, with a special interest in a person`s individual perception and understanding of the virus. Why ? Because this will help in prevention !
Experience As teacher and researcher in the field of HIV and AIDS care.
Organizations I am a lecturer at a University in the UK, and advise a number of organisations on HIV/AIDS and especially the stigma that surrounds HIV.
Question Hi,
I am a public safety officer. We had to deal with a very drunk and combative person who purposely spit in my face. Some of the spit got into my eyes, unknown if any blood mixed with it. Got to the ER about 20 minutes later and had eyes rinsed out. 28 day course of Truvada started within the hour. Suspect did come back hiv postive. What are my risks of infection from hiv? This is quite nerve wracking and don't know if I need to be so worried or not? Thanks so much for any help you can provide.
Answer Hi
Thanks for the question, and I can see why you're worried here. Well, incidents where people (usually in health care - though very rarely) have caught HIV from splashes to the eye, this has been fresh undiluted blood. In the situation you describe, its very unlikely you caught HIV - though as you've started Truvada, your medics may recommend an HIV test anyway, just to be certain.
But, the risk of infection in your case is very very low.
Hope this helps - feel free to send a follow up, and I recommend this website for more information about HIV: www.avert.org
