I went to a pathology lab today to get a blood test. When I went in, the staff already had the injection in her hand. Do clinics use used needles and syringes? Should I be worried about the risk of HIV, especially since it is a small pathology and not a big hospital?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Rohinipriyanka Pondugula

General Practitioner

MBBS
9+ Yrs

Consult Now

Most licensed pathologies use single use disposable syringes. It is standard medical practice, even in smaller labs. If the needle was opened in front of you or appeared sealed, there is likely no risk. If you are still anxious, you can take a HIV Combo (4th Gen) Test after 2 to 4 weeks to ease your mind. Risk is extremely low unless you saw clear misuse.

Dr. Rohinipriyanka Suggests...

Take a HIV DUO (ANTIGEN AND ANTIBODY) Test

Book HIV DUO (ANTIGEN AND ANTIBODY) Test

Answered 15/09/2025

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

I had sexual contact with an HIV positive woman. I took an HIV RNA PCR test 28 days after exposure, and the result was not detected. However, I am experiencing symptoms such as rashes, joint pain, fever, and bumps on my tongue.

Answered by Apollo Doctors

Hello Doctor, I recently did an HIV test using the ICT method about 1 month after possible exposure. How accurate is this test at this stage? Should I get tested again for confirmation?

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.