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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. |