Welcome back to the forum. I’m sorry you continue to worry about the exposure we discussed previously but I also understand how symptoms such as yours shortly after an encounter might be worrisome. Certainly slightly less than half of people who acquire HIV experience what is called the acute retroviral syndrome (ARS), an illness characterized by severe sore throat, high fever, and generalized muscle and joint aches. These symptoms usually do not include respiratory symptoms such as cough or a runny nose. That said, my assessment regarding your risk of HIV is unchanged. This was a no risk event. The same symptoms that I described as the ARS are also the symptoms of many, many flulike viral illnesses including influenza. In scientific studies in which at risk persons (and I do not consider you “at risk” because of your encounter) with symptoms such as yours have been evaluated for recently acquired HIV, in 99% of episodes HIV is not present and another, usually viral illness is the cause. I am confident that is the case for you as well.---

Thanks Doctor Hook! I have 100% confidence in your opinion and diagnosis. I will live life as normal and put the encounter behind me. Thanks again :)

I’m glad you found my comments helpful. Take care. EWH---