Stepping on a hypodermic needle
I just stepped on a hypodermic needle on the beach at 2pm. The needle was buried in sand and stuck lightly into my pinkie toe. No blood, no wound. What are the chances that the needle had HIV and I got infected. There was no blood on the needle. Im asking because Im asked to decide whether I want to take PEP meds and really dont want to. Also if anyone gas taken PEP how bad are the side effects? Thanks
Hi
. Your concerns are certainly understandable. I need to note that we are not medical professionals and, for your protection, cannot offer medical advice over the internet. I can offer this article from our editorial team on differences in HIV transmission risk, which includes accidental needle stick: https://h-i-v.net/transmission-risks. Of course, every situation is different and the risk can change due to issue circumstances. I can't personally speak to PEP, but this article gives an overview: https://h-i-v.net/pep. It does note that one of the instances it may be advised for is an accidental needle stick in a medical setting. I can't speak to your precise circumstance. I hope this information is helpful. Best, Richard (Team Member)
