cuts

[Dr Steve Taylor]

Skin is an excellent barrier against HIV, this includes cuts which have scabbed over. Infectious fluid on intact skin is NOT a route for infection.

However, If there are breaks in the skin or open wounds then it is possible that HIV could enter the body. IF if the open wound comes into contact with significant amounts of HIV infected fluid or blood. This is more likely the deeper the cut or wound.

Even if this is the case does not mean a person will definitely become infected with HIV. The chance of infection will be more likely the higher the concentration of HIV in the blood.

This also means that a person who is on effective treatment for HIV will be far less infectious than somebody who does not know they have the infection.

For more ways in which you can and cannot catch HIV please see our booklet "What is HIV?" which can be found at http://www.savinglivesuk.com/wp-content ... active.pdf