Can HIV Be Contracted From Handling Used Wet Paper Towel?

Posted on Thu, 12 Apr 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 12 Apr 2018 Answered on

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : Recently after a chemistry lab I was cleaning up the materials and noticed that there was a wet paper towel in the sink. I picked it up and threw it away without a glove, not realizing it had been there from the student ahead of me. I didn't notice any blood present, but if there were and the individual were HIV+, would there be any chance of me contracting the virus? I don't have any notable cuts or scratches other than a slight burn from a hot piece of glass on my hand. I'm concerned over the nailbed or any very small papercuts. Should I get tested? I'm just trying to calm some severe anxiety. Thank you for your time.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:

There is no risk for HIV.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

I have read carefully your history and I think you shouldn't worry because there is no risk for HIV.

Even if the person is HIV positive and the paper had blood you should know that HIV cannot live outside the body just a few seconds.

So, having no cuts as well definitely there is no risk for HIV and you don't need to do an HIV test.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Monika Dede, Infectious Diseases Specialist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (35 minutes later)

Thank you. We were also dumping chemicals down the sink which must have made the environment even more difficult for HIV to live. It had been there for at least an hour and a half before I touched it and was drenched in both chemicals and tap water. Just for much needed reassurance, even a small first degree burn on my finger would not have increased the risk? I'm mostly sure this is my OCD talking.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (19 hours later)

Brief Answer:

There is absolutly no risk for HIV.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Please don't worry I emphasize again that there is no risk for HIV transmission even if you have a first-degree burn on your finger.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Monika Dede, Infectious Diseases Specialist

Note: Get personalized answers to your HIV related queries You can choose to talk face to face with your doctor. Book a Video Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy