My girlfriend has hep C since 5 years ago. She cares about her disease and so far none of her families are infected . But recently we have met and I´m still paranoid.
For example, if a sharp tool (like knife) pricks her (e.g. during cooking), and no blood comes out, she considers it as safe and doesnt use antiseptic. Even though, theoretically this action is very dangerous, but as I said, none of her family have been infected so far.
We went to fishing together. She put a worm on the fishing hook, and I saw that hook pricked her (no blood came out out). Later, I got that rod, and tried to put worm on the same hook, and it pricked me as well (no blood came out). Apparently both pricks were shallow. She also, didnt care (I´m assuming she didnt take it seriously). Also, I assume this situation has happened before when she went to fishing with her other friends.
HOWEVER, I am very paranoid and have already assumed that now I am infected with Hep C virus. Am I right or is it just paranoia? REALITCALLY spoken (not theoretically), was there high chance for hep c transmission?
Also, please tell me in such situations, what is the best thing to do in order to reduce chance of infection? Definitely not cutting the finger!
What is the risk for HCV infection from a needlestick exposure to HCV-contaminated blood?
After a needlestick or sharps exposure to HCV-positive blood, the risk of HCV infection is approximately 1.8% (range: 0%–10%).
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Based on this statement, you can reasonably assume that a needlestick, as it pertains to a healthcare worker, would involve direct contact with a patient's blood.
If a fishing hook penetrates the skin and doesn't reach the bloodstream, then your chances of getting infected are nil.