[Question #12309] Blood on the sidewalk
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8 months ago
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I was walking saw several large patches of what seemed to be blood and a bloody tissue. I don't know if I stepped on it or came within inches of it. I took my shoes off and washed them. I don't believe I ever touched the sole / it's 27 Fahrenheit outside. Is there any risk for HIV if I touched my shoes where they hit the blood (maybe) or some blood got on me when I took them off / I have cracked feet from dry skin and diabetes
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
8 months ago
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Welcome to our Forum. Thanks for your confidence in our service. The events you describe did not put you at risk for HIV or any other blood borne infection. HIV and other blood borne infections are much harder to acquire than you think. I say this for a number of reasons:
1. You do not know that the blood you saw was from a person with untreated HIV or other infections
2. HIV and other viruses become non-infectious almost immediately after leaving the body.
3. Direct contact of skin with infected blood or secretions does not lead to infection, even if cuts, scrapes of skin cracks are present.
4. HIV and other infectious material would not pass through the soles of your shoes and would not infect you if you got a bit of blood on your hands as you were cleaning up
This was a no risk event. There is no medical or scientific reason for concern or for testing. Please don't worry. No one has EVER acquired HIV (or other blood borne infections) through the sort of exposure you describe. You are not going to be the first. EWH
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8 months ago
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Thank you
My only concern is we have a lot of homeless in that area who have been caught using IV drugs.
But you say no worry, so no worries- thank you
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
8 months ago
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Even most homeless persons and most drug users do not have HIV. Even if the blood you saw was from a person with HIV, there is norisk of infection to you. Please don't worry. EWH---
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8 months ago
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Thank you Doc, I appreciate you
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
8 months ago
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I'm pleased I could help. I'll close the thread now. Take care and please don't worry. EWH---