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Can you contract HIV from dried blood on small cuts?
Hello, a few weeks ago I went bowling and discovered there was (what appeared to be dried) blood in one of the holes in the ball (after bowling a few rounds). The blood would be from a stranger. I do have chapped skin and a few cuts so my question is should I worry about contracting HIV? I know it dies once it touches light and air, but since the hole is dark, could the virus survive? (Also, I recognize that this is an irrational fear and am seeking help to demolish this fear.)
COMMUNITY LEADER
You will NEVER be infected by HIV from blood outside of the body. It doesn't matter what other conditions are present - if the blood isn't in the body, or in a vacuum environment (syringe with needle attached) it isn't infectious. Forget about this event and anything like it.
If you never have unprotected anal/vaginal intercourse with someone of unknown status, and never share intravenous drug needles, you will never have to worry about HIV.
If you never have unprotected anal/vaginal intercourse with someone of unknown status, and never share intravenous drug needles, you will never have to worry about HIV.
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