Question 1

I'm really trying to understand what a "TARGET NOT DETECTED" result means from an HIV 1 RNA PCR quantitative test. It's been 7 weeks, and seeing that result has me a bit anxious. Does this mean the virus isn't there at all, or could it be something else?

Accepted Answer

That says you have no infection

Question 2

What are the chances of getting HIV from a razor cut while getting a shave at the barber, especially if I had pimples on my face at the time? Last month the barber did change the blade, but the razor was old, and there was a bit of blood which he cleaned off with water. I got an HIV 1 and 2 test done 37 days later, and the result came back negative. Should I be worried?

Accepted Answer

HIV is not easily transmitted through razor cuts because the virus is fragile and does not survive long outside the body. Additionally, the virus cannot be transmitted through intact skin. As for the pimples on your face, they do not increase the risk of HIV transmission in this scenario. Since you have already tested negative for HIV 1 and 2 after 37 days, it is unlikely that you have contracted the virus from the incident you described. It is important to continue practicing safe hygiene practices and regular testing for sexually transmitted infections.

Question 3

I'm dealing with a 99-degree fever after having typhoid for two months. Even though Ive recovered from typhoid, this mild fever still lingers. My fever panel results are normal and my chest X-ray looks fine. What additional tests should I consider to figure out what's causing this fever?

Accepted Answer

To further investigate the cause of your persistent low-grade fever after recovering from typhoid, I would recommend the following tests. Blood culture to check for any bacterial infection. Urine culture to rule out urinary tract infection. Widal test to ensure complete recovery from typhoid. Dengue NS1 antigen test to rule out dengue fever. Malaria antigen test to rule out malaria. Typhidot test for typhoid fever. Liver function tests to assess liver health post-typhoid. Complete blood count (CBC) to check for any underlying infection or inflammation. Serology tests for other viral infections like hepatitis. Thyroid function tests to rule out thyroid disorders causing fever These tests will help in identifying the underlying cause of your persistent fever and guide further treatment.

I'm currently undergoing treatment for TB lymph nodes, and I've been on the medication for about 10 months now. I've got about 2 months left to complete the course. I'm really anxious about whether it's okay to get the Covid vaccine while I'm still on my TB meds. Can you shed some light on this?

no its not safe

More Infectious Disease Health Queries

I'm really trying to understand what a "TARGET NOT DETECTED" result means from an HIV 1 RNA PCR quantitative test. It's been 7 weeks, and seeing that result has me a bit anxious. Does this mean the virus isn't there at all, or could it be something else?

I'm dealing with a 99-degree fever after having typhoid for two months. Even though Ive recovered from typhoid, this mild fever still lingers. My fever panel results are normal and my chest X-ray looks fine. What additional tests should I consider to figure out what's causing this fever?

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