A member asked:

Used a public bathroom and i just noticed a lil blood on the tissue its not from me it looked fresh but i just realized that i wiped with it (the bathroom lighting was pretty dim) am i at risk for anything like hiv or hep?

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Hiv can survive outside the body for several hours. For transmission to occur you would have to have an open area in your mucus membranes in the anus or vulvar area for the virus to enter your blood stream. However there is a very low likelihood of transmission in my opinion. If you still have concerns have your physician arrange for appropriate testing for peace of mind.

Answered 10/26/2021

0 views

Thank
Dr. Hunter Handsfield answered

Specializes in Infectious Disease

Almost certainly the blood was your own: I cannot imagine how another person's "fresh" blood could be on the tissue. Almost certainly the blood was your own. In any case, nobody has ever caught HIV or hepatitis in this way, and you won't be the first. Keep your awareness up for possible abnormal vaginal bleeding, but otherwise try not to worry. You are not at risk for any infection.

Answered 4/24/2023

0 views

Thank

Related Questions

Ask your question
Didn't find what you're looking for?

90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more.

Ask your question