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Is HIV transmission possible through infected sputum?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

A person sneezed on my face, and there was sputum on my mustache area. I used my tongue to lick it unknowingly. The sputum was like a transparent white jelly. I am afraid that I will get HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) for licking it because the person who sneezed on my face is HIV positive. Can this cause HIV?

Please help.

Hello, Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. There is a possibility for the transmission of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. Therefore, I suggest you do one of the following tests: ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) kit test - Seven to ten days after exposure. RNA (ribonucleic acid) PCR (polymerase chain reaction) on the 15th day of exposure. Fourth-generation CMIA (chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay) kit test on the 28th day of exposure.

I hope this has helped you out.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At January 21, 2023
Reviewed AtJuly 4, 2025

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