What Tests Should Be Taken After Being Pricked By Needle Of Heroin User?
I encountered a needle stick from a needle of a known Herion user back in July of 2011. The stick drew some blood from my for finger. I had no idea, at that time, when the needle was last used. Subsequently, I have tested HIV and HCV negative at 2.5 months, 4.5 months and 6 months all using the 3rd generation Elisa Test that test for both IgG and Igm antibodies. I'm unsure of the HIV status of the drug user. I've had ongoing sinus problems since December. However, I don't remember any other problems since my exposure other than fatigue which my GP found to be very low B12. I'm a 50 year old male. Can I relax with the results that I received or is there another test I should be taking?
Infectious Diseases Specialist, Dr. Arun's Response
Hello, Theoretically after 3 months ELISA gives you correct reading. But practically in some cases it may take more time to come positive. If I am Your consulting Doctor I would like you to go for Anti-retroviral Therapy immediately after prick. I like you to find the people of whom you got prick, and check the status for that person. If he/she is untraceble, than I suggest you to take a P24 Antigen ELISA Test after completion of the 28 days Anti retro viral treatment. It is a confirmatory test for HIV Infection. If It is negative than you are worry free. But If Its Reactive than you have to continue your treatment.
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What Tests Should Be Taken After Being Pricked By Needle Of Heroin User?
Hello, Theoretically after 3 months ELISA gives you correct reading. But practically in some cases it may take more time to come positive. If I am Your consulting Doctor I would like you to go for Anti-retroviral Therapy immediately after prick. I like you to find the people of whom you got prick, and check the status for that person. If he/she is untraceble, than I suggest you to take a P24 Antigen ELISA Test after completion of the 28 days Anti retro viral treatment. It is a confirmatory test for HIV Infection. If It is negative than you are worry free. But If Its Reactive than you have to continue your treatment.