Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2004. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date. Dear doc,
I am a sexually active gay man and I normally get tested once a year. I had
oral sex and anal sex with a condom a week ago with a guy who's status is
unknown. I felt this was a relatively low risk activity and was unconcerned
until 5 days after I had a swollen throat and a fever with very bad night
sweets. The fever only lasted one night and the sore throat tapered off over
a couple days. Every thing I read on the internet says Acute HIV takes 2-6
weeks to develop. Should I be concerned? If so what should I do?
thanks!!!
Ross Slotten, M.D.
Klein and Slotten Medical Associates
Private Practice in Family Medicine
With a special interest in HIV disease
Your symptoms of a sore throat and fever five days after having oral sex almost certainly are not related to HIV infection. They're most consistent with a strep throat or a mild viral upper respiratory infection. However, you also could have been exposed to gonorrhea or syphilis. Gonorrhea can cause a sore throat, but usually does not cause a fever. You should consult your physician about screening for strep and sexually transmitted diseases. I would not get an HIV test at this time. If by some chance you truly were infected with HIV, it will take 3-6 months before the traditional antibody test is positive. Fortunately, HIV infection is rarely transmitted through oral sex (though it is possible).
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