Can you get AIDS by a cut from a broken toilet if they lived in it a year ago?

Question

I work in used mobile homes. I tore a toilet out and got cut on the finger. I woonder if AIDS lives that long in water or moist areas. They had been out of the home for a year. Should I get tested?

Answer 1

Well strictly speaking HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) can't live at all anywhere for the simple reason that viruses aren't living. But I get your point :)

You don't need to worry about getting HIV from cutting yourself on anything that's not contaminated with fresh blood or other fluids from an HIV-positive patient. The virus can only "live" outside the body for a very short time (a few hours), and only in fresh bodily fluids (I believe it actually needs living human cells to survive).

However, any cut can become infected, and with deep cuts, particularly puncture wounds, there's always a risk of tetanus, especially if the cut was from something in a damp area. Be sure to clean the cut thoroughly, treat it with first-aid antiseptics (ex. neosporin), and cover it with a bandage. Also, be sure your tetanus shots are up to date. Watch carefully for signs of infection, especially if the cut was obtained in an unclean area, and see a doctor if the wound becomes inflamed (turns red, maybe starts oozing puss, that kind of thing), or seems otherwise remarkable.

Answer 2

My wife says that AIDS does not live outside of the bloodstream very long. You should be safe. But in this day and age it wouldn't hurt for you to have a AIDS test done regardless. Especially if you are sexually active and have had more than one partner in the last 15 years. Always wear protective clothing when working in a hazardous environment, like leather gloves!! (The Mrs. is a Dr.)

Answer 3

No, the virus doesn't last more than 24-48 hrs outside the body even in moist conditions. You're safe :)

Answer 4

I personally think you would be ok.. I don't think aids would live that long, as for bacteria its almost impossible to get rid of. Seriously though, you should be ok. Just remember this lesson when changing commodes in the near future. DO WEAR LATEX GLOVES, OR PLASTIC GLOVES WITH NO HOLES.. ;0)

Answer 5

HIV doesn't live anywhere near that long outside of the body. If it would make you feel better, get tested to be sure.

Answer 6

of course no. the HIV doen't live outside the body in a long period of time. You don't have to worry

Answer 7

Not. A. Chance.

Answer 8

It is probably fine, but you should get tested anyway

Answer 9

i dont think they can survive in air

Answer 10

No not at all.. You don't need to worry at all..