Melissa:  There is no easy answer to this issue, but the likelihood of
exposure through a couple of drops of breastmilk, even if mother is HIV+,
is extremely low, especially since the cut was not a fresh one.  The
infectiousness of human milk is still being debated, but it is less
infectious than infected blood, and even in breastfed babies who are
ingesting much larger quantities and over long periods, the infection
rate is low (see previous Lactnet postings about HIV).  Despite all this,
it's normal to be concerned.  Perhaps she could suggest that the mother
be tested, since the mother herself seemed to express concerns.  It's in
the mother's and baby's best interest for the mom to be tested.  Then the
best case scenario is that the mother is HIV- and everyone can relax.
If, however, the mom is HIV+, then the LC needs to be tested
periodically, and even then she is likely to remain negative.  Then she
can chalk it up to experience and use universal precautions in the
future.  If mother refuses to get tested, then the LC can still get
periodic testing to reassure herself.  Hope this helps.  Alicia.
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