Modes of transmission

Occupational Exposures

HIV transmission, due to occupational exposure, occurs by:

  • Percutaneous injury, such as a needlestick or a cut with a sharp object;
  • Contact of mucous membrane or abraded skin with HIV-infected blood or body fluids.

The risk of HIV transmission after a percutaneous exposure to HIV-infected blood is 0.3%.

The risk of HIV transmission after a mucous membrane exposure to HIV-infected blood is .09%.

The risk of HIV transmission after contact of abraded skin with HIV-infected blood is estimated to be less than .09%.

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