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 (ANTIGEN AND ANTIBODY) Test

Book HIV DUO (ANTIGEN AND ANTIBODY) Test

Answered 11/09/2025

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