how long does hiv live outside the body in blood

[obsessed80]

I know the hiv virus is very fragile, and I read that the protein breaks down quickly once exposed to air, but does anybody know how long it stays alive in blood outside the body? And must you be able to see it or can it be microscopic?

[obsessed80]

Do not want to fuel  ANYONE'S anxiety, but living with dermatitis on hands and psoriasis for many, many years, even before much was known about the virus, I am trying to educate myself so I won't be so paranoid, and thought maybe the answer might reduce other's fears as well.
Thank-you for your  response

[Vance2335]

We are not here to fuel anxiety driven questions.
But to answer this question only...blood dries quickly and is exposed to air, so unless your talking about a pool of blood you talking about a very very short time.