Is there any way I may have contracted the HIV virus?
Professor of Virology and Head, Department of Microbiology,
and In-charge HIV/AIDS Reference Centre (NACO),
A.I.I.M.S., New Delhi
Q: About three weeks ago I had an encounter at a strip club. I meet a stripper and we talked for a while. She later offered a lap dance. She decided to grab my private parts and pulled it out from my pants. In moments of confusion, I allowed her to masturbate me. By the time I came to my senses and was going to stop her I ejaculated. Although there was no penetration or oral sex, she did dance on and around my penis. I am concerned about the risk of HIV. I know that there is a low to no risk, but my mind lingers on the thought. Is there any way I may have contracted the HIV virus?
A:The chance of getting HIV infection are almost negligible with such a history of exposure. However, to alleviate your anxiety I suggest you to get HIV provirus DNA test by PCR now and if negative another test after 3 more weeks. A test for HIV antibodies after 8 to 12 weeks of exposure can also be done to rule out HIV infection if HIV -PCR is not available.