Date: Tue, 18 Apr 1995 14:40:52 +0500
From: ghmcleaf{CONTRACTOR/ASPEN/ghmcleaf}%NAC-GATEWAY.ASPEN@ace.aspensys.com
Subject: CDC Nat. AIDS Hotline Training Bul. #131


           CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION
                       HIV/AIDS PREVENTION
           CDC NATIONAL AIDS HOTLINE TRAINING BULLETIN
.................................................................

March 3, 1995                                               #131

This is a statement from the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) concerning pus as a source of HIV infection.

Although CDC is aware of no HIV infections documented to result
from contact with pus, we assume that such transmission is
possible.  Accordingly, pus should be handled in ways similar to
blood (e.g., universal precautions in health care settings).  Pus
is composed of white blood cells, cellular debris, and
microorganisms.  Although HIV may not be specifically isolated
from pus, many other infectious agents are present and contact
with pus should be avoided.  If contact occurs, the person who
sustains such contact should wash their hands (or other area)
with soap and warm water (or moist towelette or antiseptic
solution if water is not available).