Q: It is seen in places like Kolkata, Nursing Homes and other labs send people to our homes to collect blood samples. I would like to ask how can I ascertain that the syringes used is free from HIV/AIDS even if it is a sealed one. What procedure should we follow to make syringes 100% safe, if at all it contains HIV/AIDS virus?

A:While it is correct that there have been reports of syringes being recycled fraudulently, if care is taken to purchase sealed disposable syringes from a reputable chemist it should be very safe. I do not recommend consumers sterilising syringes at home, the risk of infection and damage to the plastic material of syringes is significant. Ask your doctor/lab to use self-destruct syringes. They are available in India and cannot be re-used. If you like you can purchase them yourself and insist that they are used.