Question:

I was stuck by a needle in the forearm. The needle was on the ground (no idea how long) and I rolled onto it with almost my full weight (Lawn seats at a concert.) and it went all the way in. It looked empty. Is there an HIV risk with this? How long can HIV survive in a needle?

I did have a sore throat, body ache, and diarrhea about 4 days later and it lasted for about 3-4 days. It's now been 3 weeks & I feel OK other than a mild recurring headache late in the day.

Answer provided by:

Daniel Lee, M. D.
Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine
UCSD Medical Center
Owen Clinic

Your risk of HIV is very highly unlikely. HIV in blood (but outside of the body, exposed to air) does not last long (probably seconds to minutes, if even that). It is very likely that if there was HIV in the needle (which likely has been lying around for hours to days), the HIV is likely dead and not able to cause disease. I wouldn't worry about it. If you are still concerned, I would recommend that you get tested for HIV. Thanks for your question.

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