husband HIV, Hep-C positive, me: negative: first needle stick, drew blood, PEP?

[akcol]

Together/married 15 years, while helping my husband clean up his morning infusion of clotting factor (hemophilia) I pricked my finger with his butterfly. Since it was fresh from his vein, there was blood in it, albeit a small, minute amount since it pierced the plaster sheathing I was putting it in before it pierced my skin.
I 'milked' it, washed it with soap and water, applied teat tree and oil of oregano (both anti-virals).
Called three experts. Two say yes, do PEP. One (and body website) says, no, transmission risk is truly so low, PEP is not guaranteed, very invasive, will lower immune response, so accidental next exposure could make me more liable to exposure.
So - but into fear and start anti-virals for a month, or relax, get my usual testing to confirm no HIV or HCV with blood tests? People with EXPERIENCE with sticks and this anxiety, your opinions please.
I have had my Hep-B vaccinations.
Thanks!
Best health all,
akcol

[Ann]

Akcol,

I'd be more concerned about the Hep C than the hiv. Hep C is an extremely robust virus, while hiv is very fragile and does not remain able to infect outside the human body. Hep C is much more infectious than hiv could ever hope to be.

You certainly do not need PEP over this. You would be wise to test for both viruses though. As someone who is partnered with a person who has both viruses, you should be testing on a regular, routine basis anyway, at least once a year or more often if unprotected intercourse occurs.

Ann

[akcol]

Thanks Ann,
I was just reading an earlier post you made re: this same subject.
I am tested regularly (both viruses)...additionally, my husband's HIV viral load is undetectable, and his Hep-C load is low.
Honestly, buying into the fear by even expert civilians, versus those of us 'in the life' is the most stressful part of this new event.
I agree, no PEP, keep with the regular testing. Today might be a Valium day however. Wow, did my body/mind react with stress.
I absolutely appreciate your quick and assured response, and your willingness to share and post your own experiences. My Mum in law, (husband's mom) an educator and in service to our local community her whole life (but has never been stuck herself) agrees: risk is so low, anti-virals are invasive, Hep-C is more the worry. 

Breathing deeply,
akcol

[Ann]

akcol,

You're welcome. Keep breathing deeply, and a valium probably wouldn't go amiss tonight either. Or perhaps a trip down to the pub for a pint or two and a few stress-releasing laughs (I'm headed out shortly myself!). I'm sure you'll come out of this ok.

I agree that there are a lot of scaremongers out there - even in the NHS where they should know better - and they really don't help in situations like this. Hang in there and don't let the bastards grind you down.

Ann