Call 24/7

Needle-stick injury? What to do right now.

Needle-stick and sharps injuries happen in clinics, dental practices, labs, salons and tattoo studios. Quick first aid and a fast assessment for HIV and hepatitis B and C protect you.

Call a physician now
  • First aidNow
  • PEP window72 h
  • Hep B actionIdeally 24 h
A Hollis nurse taking a blood sample at a patient's home

First aid

  • Let the wound bleed gently. Do not suck it or squeeze hard.
  • Wash with soap and running water. Do not scrub or use bleach.
  • For splashes to the eyes, nose or mouth, rinse with plenty of water.
  • Note what you can about the source: the patient or client, and the type of needle or instrument.

Get assessed quickly

The physician looks at three infections: HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. HIV PEP must start within 72 hours, and hepatitis B protection works best within 24 hours if you are not already immune, but can still be given up to 7 days after a needle-stick (14 days after sex), so call even if more time has passed. There is no PEP for hepatitis C, so follow-up testing is what matters there.

Cover for workplaces

Hollis offers a monthly needle-stick cover contract for clinics, dental practices, labs, salons and tattoo studios in Dubai: a 24/7 exposure line, a physician at your door, and follow-up testing managed for your staff.

This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. Every situation is different, so speak to a physician about yours. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

Questions

Common questions.

Still unsure? The physician on duty can talk it through with you, any hour.

What is the HIV risk from a needle-stick?

It is low, and much lower when the source is not known to have HIV or is on effective treatment. The physician will explain the realistic risk and whether PEP is advised.

Should the source person be tested?

If they consent, testing the source can help the physician decide. Our team can arrange it.

Do I need hepatitis B vaccination?

If you are not already immune, the physician may recommend vaccination, and sometimes immunoglobulin, as soon as possible.

Related guides.

PEPPEP in Dubai, started at your door.Read TreatmentHepatitis B and C, assessed and managed from home.Read PEPThink you were exposed to HIV? Here is what to do now.Read TestingA private HIV test, at home.Read