Q. Can you get HIV when you have blood group O positive?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Yes, it is possible to contract HIV even if you have blood group O positive. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone who is exposed to body fluids from an infected person can be at risk of getting HIV regardless of their blood group. This includes sharing needles or syringes with someone who has HIV, having unprotected sex with them, or coming into contact with their saliva, semen, vaginal secretions and/or blood.
In terms of transmission safety measures taken by medical personnel when treating patients with O positive blood type before testing for HIV infection status there are certain precautions that should be taken such as using gloves while drawing a sample or using a needle once and disposing it afterward properly in order to reduce the chance of exposure during donor screening. Additionally all donated blood is tested for evidence of antibodies against HIV virus prior to being transfused into another recipient thus reducing any residual risk involved in receiving transfusions from contaminated supplies.
Therefore people with any other blood types besides O positive should also take necessary steps towards protecting themselves against potential exposures as well – especially among those engaging in risky sexual behaviors- in order to maximize their chances at avoiding transmission associated risks and prevent progression toward AIDS related complications if left untreated.
Related Questions
-
Gastroenterology Scientifically speaking, what causes flatulence?
-
Is it normal to pass gas frequently? | Secondmedic
-
What is the role of endoscopy in diagnosing melena? | Secondmedic
-
Gastroenterology What is the best way to control ulcerative colit
-
Gastroenterology Does crying improve one’s mental health?