Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, is a disease that affects an estimated 33.4 million people worldwide. Sadly, more than 21 million people have died due to HIV since 1981. While HIV is primarily a sexually transmitted disease, it can also be passed from person to person via contaminated needles or the spread of contaminated body fluid. Thus, it is important that hospitals and other medical facilities protect you from this terrible disease by avoiding cross-contamination.
When you come into contact with contaminated needles, you are exposed to all pathogens carried by the individuals who used the needle before you. This can put you at risk of developing devastating diseases like HIV. If you now have HIV as a result of needle contamination, you should fight back against this terrible act of hospital negligence. To discuss your case, contact a Philadelphia hospital negligence attorney from Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today at 215-238-1130.
What is HIV?
HIV is a virus that attacks your immune system. The immune system is responsible for protecting you against germs and invaders that can make you ill. As HIV degrades your immune system, you become more susceptible to other disorders and infections. Then, as you are attacked by other disorders and your immune system slips below critical levels, you may be diagnosed with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Transmission of HIV
HIV can be transmitted through bodily fluids such as:
- Blood
- Semen
- Vaginal fluid
In hospitals, the primary method of transmission is the use of tainted needles. For instance, if a doctor or nurse uses a needle on an HIV-positive patient, then uses the same needle for you, you may then carry the human immunodeficiency virus.
Contact Us
HIV is a powerful, incurable virus that can considerably shorten your life. If you now suffer from this debilitating illness as a result of contaminated needles used in the hospital, you may be entitled to financial compensation to help you with your pain and suffering. Contact a tenacious Philadelphia hospital negligence lawyer from Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. at 215-238-1130 today to learn more about your legal options.