HIV risk from COVID-19 swab

[hellohelloa877]

Hi I recently did a COVID-19 test and used a swab to swab my nose. The test was a few months old. When I removed the swab from the sealed packaging, I put the swab up my nose but this caused a minor nose bleed.

I’m pretty sure there were no fluids on the swab, but if there was a small amount of vaginal or rectal fluid on the swab, could I have given myself HIV?

[AnxiousNoMore]

You were told about the air inactivation a few days ago. It's hard to imagine that you forgot that quickly.
https://www.medhelp.org/posts/HIV-Prevention/HIV-Risk-Anal-Fingering/show/3070033

[GuitarRox]

I agree that this is a bit irrational. New packaging implies unused. Your rational side of your brain knows that.  Have you considered getting any help for the worries and anxiety you have?  It can be transformative to your life if you seek help for that if this kind of irrational fear plagues you often.

[CurfewX]

I'm sorry, but WHAT?? How do you envision vaginal or rectal fluid being on swabs in kits that are, largely, assembled/packed by automation?

In any case, my advice from your last question applies:
Don't have unprotected intercourse with someone of unknown HIV status, and don't share intravenous needles, and you will never have to worry about HIV.