Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2006. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.Hi, I'm an 18 year old mother and I have a son that is 8 1/2 months old, his grandfather (my father-in-law ) is HIV positive. You know how kids always put their hands in their mouths and then try to put them back into other people mouths? Well, my son is always trying to put his hands in his grandfathers mouth, I was wondering if there are any chances of him getting infected, please respond ASAP because I want to prevent it. I'm scared of this disease.
Being a good mother brings out all kind of protective reflexes, and I'm glad you asked the question.
This kind of casual contact does not present a risk for HIV infection. HIV is a fragile bug, and saliva seems to protect you from it.
If your father in law has perfectly awful teeth, with running sores and bleeding I might be more concerned, especially if he bites(!), but in the absence of these problems, I'd not be very concerned.
Let your baby enjoy his grandfather, and rest easy.
060421
ASKD060415
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980,2011. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content.