I was accidentally injected with a potentially contaminated needle at a clinic. Concerned about HIV risk, I went for an HIV combo test 56 days after the incident at my nearest ICTC centre. The test result was negative. The ICTC staff mentioned that if there is direct exposure to HIV infected blood, it can show in the test after 28 days. I would like a specialist advice regarding: Should I get tested again? Which test is recommended now? Is 56 days sufficient to conclude that I am HIV negative? I have heard that HIV transmitted via sexual contact may take longer to appear in blood tests compared to needle exposure, is this true?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Dhankecha Dineshbhai

General Practitioner

MBBS
6+ Yrs

Consult Now

HIV Combo test (4th gen) at 56 days is highly reliable. Low risk via needle prick unless blood was visible. For peace of mind, test again at 90 days.

Dr. Dhankecha Suggests...

Take a HIV DUO (HIV P24 ANTIGEN, HIV 1 & 2 ANTIBODY) Test

Book HIV DUO (HIV P24 ANTIGEN, HIV 1 & 2 ANTIBODY) Test

Answered 11/09/2025

More HIV DUO (HIV P24 ANTIGEN, HIV 1 & 2 ANTIBODY) Health Queries

View all

Hi, I am very scared. Please help me. After 80 days of unprotected exposure with a paid partner whose HIV status is unknown, my HIV test report from Dr. Lal Path Lab using the antibody/antigen combo test is 0.82 (non reactive). This value is very close to 1, so I am very stressed that I may still get HIV at the 90th day or after 3 months. Please help me. I am extremely worried.

Answered by Apollo Doctors

Hello sir, I have tested with regular blood and urine tests and everything is normal. Can HIV be identified from these test reports? Please suggest what test is required for this.

Answered by Apollo Doctors

Hi, my blood test report for HIV shows negative (0.06). What does this decimal number mean? I have taken this test after 72 hours. Should I take it again after a few days?

Answered by Apollo Doctors

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.