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Can you get HIV or Hepatitis from a pin prick?

So I work at a grocery store that only offers boxes or reusable bags to pack stuff in. I was packing someone's cloth bag when I got pricked from what looked like a sewing pin that was tucked in the fabric (it drew a little blood).

What are the chances of getting something from that?

2 Answers

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  • 8 years ago
    Favorite Answer

    Kerry, sleep peacefully. Your chances of getting HIV or hepatitis are zero IF the prick was "dry" ;-)) Both HIV and hepatitis viruses dry and die within minutes of air exposure and are thereafter no longer infectious, even with a deep wound though some bacteria might still be present to cause some local infection.

    Source(s): a physician
  • Mike
    Lv 7
    8 years ago

    if the pin tip HAD BEEN EXPOSED to contamination, then yes you COULD get HIV from it--otherwise, it is just a hole in your skin. BEST ADVICE ? IMMEDIATELY wash the affected area with soap and water, and put a band aid over the wound. If it swells up later or itches profusely, get it examined by a doctor.

    Source(s): my grandfather was a doctor.
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