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National Center for HIV, STD and TB Prevention Divisions of HIV/AIDS Prevention |
Can I get HIV from a bite? Human Bite: In 1997, CDC published findings from a state health department investigation of an incident that suggested blood-to-blood transmission of HIV by a human bite. There have been other rare reports in the medical literature in which HIV appeared to have been transmitted by a bite. Severe trauma with extensive tissue tearing and damage and presence of blood were reported in each of these instances. Biting is not a common way of transmitting HIV. In fact, there are numerous reports of bites that did not result in HIV infection. Non-Human Bite: HIV is a virus that infects humans and thus cannot be transmitted to or carried by non-human animals. The only exception to this is a few chimpanzees in laboratories that have been artificially infected with HIV. Because HIV is not found in non-human animals it is not possible for HIV to be transmitted from an animal bite, such as from a dog or cat. Some animals can carry viruses that are similar to HIV, such as FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) found in cats or SIV (Simian Immunodeficiency Virus) found in apes. These viruses can only exist in their specific animal host and are not transmissible to humans.
Last Updated: December 15, 2003 Centers for Disease Control & Prevention National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention Divisions of HIV/AIDS Prevention Contact Us |