Can I get HIV if someone's blood, who is positive and on ARVs, accidentally splashes into my eye with tap water mixed in? I'm really worried about the risk here.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Shubham Chauhan

General Practitioner

MBBS
4+ Yrs

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yes it can be transferd start your prophylatic arv and get it checked

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Answered 04/07/2025

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HIV Transmission Risk: The risk is very low but not zero. The eye is a mucous membrane, which is a potential route for HIV entry, though transmission this way is rare.
Effect of Antiretroviral Therapy: If the person is on effective ART, their viral load is likely suppressed, greatly reducing transmission risk. Note: Rosuvastatin is not an antiretroviral.
Dilution with Tap Water: Tap water dilutes the blood, further reducing the risk.
Immediate Action: Rinse the eye thoroughly with clean water or saline immediately.
Medical Advice: Seek prompt medical evaluation to assess the need for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), most effective within 72 hours.

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