<s>[INST] What is the risk of disease or infection from a hypodermic needle stick?  I was going through a box of my parents' things and was stuck.  (Dad is a hoarder)  wrapped around the syringe was a label from a hotel in Budapest.  They had traveled there in the mid-1990s. I'm sure the syringe and needle have been in the box ever since. [/INST] Hello,Thank you for contacting HCMI understand your concern, I am Dr Arun Tank, Infectious Disease Specialist answering your query.There is no risk of any viral infection by this syringe.But there is possibility of rusted needle and chance of tetanus infection.I advice you to not worry regarding viral infections like HCV, HBV, HIV etc.Tetanus vaccine should be taken by you in order to prevent infection caused by it. Also maintain hygiene at the site of prick. Frequent cleaning and dressing can prevent chance of infection.You can take the antibiotics like cefixime under your doctors guidance to reduce the chance of infection. Application of polysporin ointment can also help in prevention of infection.You can ask for further queries here on bit.ly/DrArun.Thank you,Dr Arun TankInfectious Disease specialistWe wish you a best health at health care magic. </s>