HIV from semen incontact with the outside of the anus
Hello if a person with hiv had a small amout of semen of their finger and touched my anus (the finger was never inserted into the anus hole) is there a risk of getting infected? and if this happend should I start PEP?
Hi There,
Thank you for using the HIV/AIDS Vancouver Online Helpline as your resource for HIV related information.
Hopefully we can provide you with more information so that you can make the decision:
HIV does not survive outside of the body for more than a few minutes. Furthermore, fluids such as semen, pre-cum, rectal secretions and vaginal fluids need a direct access to the bloodstream. If the finger was not inserted into the anus, it did not have direct access to the bloodstream. Even then, transmission of a fluid that was outside of the body for even seconds before being inserted into a vagina or anus is not a realistic risk for HIV transmission. In summary, if the semen was outside the body for a few minutes and there was no direct access to the bloodstream, this activity would be considered no risk.
That said, activities such as oral sex, fingering, and rubbing do pose potential risk for transmission of other STIs- such as chlamydia and gonorrhea because they are transmitted from skin to skin contact.
As far as PEP is concerned, it is usually prescribed in cases of High risk such as unprotected sex with a known HIV person. It also ideally needs to be started within 2 hours of a high risk exposure and not any later than after 72 hours. PEP is not usually covered by health insurance plans so it can cost anywhere from $800-$1200 for a month long perscription of HIV meds. This medication, once started, should be taken every day and you cannot miss a dose for it to be effective. It is also important to check in with your doctor while on these medications as they could effect your kidney and/or liver functions as well. For more information about PEP please read: http://www.catie.ca/pdf/acasfs/pep.pdf
We do encourage everyone who has never had an HIV test before or anyone who is sexually active to get tested regularly. Regular HIV/STI's tests are also good to include in your regular check ups with your doctor. much like prostate and breast exams as they will keep you informed about your sexual health status.
I hope this helps answer your questions. If you would like to call or speak to someone at the helpline, you can also do so anonymously and confidentially by calling 604 696 4666, Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm (PST)
Cheers and Happy Health!
Jaz
AIDS Vancouver Helpline Volunteer
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