Could I get Hiv from a cat scratch?
So I was visiting a friend, that works in the sex industry. She has a kitten that is very playful and she was playing with her and got scratched. After about 5 minutes, I got scratched on my finger by the same cat. I don’t know my friend’s status, but if she is poz what are my chances of having hiv from the cat scratch? I am really extremely worried. Thank you for your time.
I'm glad you reached out because I can tell from your writing that you're dealing with a lot of anxiety and worry. Also, it gives us a chance to post some information about HIV transmission, and clear up some misinformation, that may be helpful to others. It sounds like you are concerned about a cat transferring the virus from its claw, because its owner may or may not have a positive status. First, we must remember there is a lot of misinformation around who contracts HIV and also how it is transmitted from a person living with HIV who has a detectable viral load. The five fluids HIV can be transmitted through are breast milk, blood, precum, semen, and vaginal secretions. It is not transferred through pets, and environmental transmission outside the body virtually non-existent - more about that here: https://h-i-v.net/transmission
There are messages that you may have heard from others or from the media that can feed this anxiety - more on that here: https://h-i-v.net/myths-misconceptions, so I hope this helps to provide some clarity and ease your mind. Thanks for asking!Liz, Team Member
Alafia (Peace) I understand your concern. Thank you for taking the time to reach out to us. Have you had the opportunity to lòk at the information resource which Liz sent you in her response? I also suggest you getting tested Have you ever been tested for HIV and if so how long ago? I hope that you received the support you needed. Khafre (H-I-V.net Team Member)
