HIV Transmission via Bites and Scratches: Theoretical but Extremely Low Risk

HIV transmission through human bites/scratches is biologically plausible but exceedingly rare (<0.1% per exposure). Requirements:

• Source: High viral load (acute infection, untreated AIDS).
• Injury: Deep, bleeding wound with significant blood/saliva exchange.
• Recipient: Mucosal or broken skin contact with infected fluid.

Saliva alone has low viral titer and inhibitory factors. Documented cases involve severe trauma with extensive blood exposure (e.g., biting during fights). Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is generally not recommended for minor bites without visible blood; assess case-by-case with HIV specialist.