How HIV Infection Does Not Occur
HIV infection does not occur through casual contact such as hugging, kissing, sharing food, or touching the skin of someone living with HIV. While it is possible to contract HIV through sexual contact, the virus does not spread through saliva, sweat, or tears. HIV is not spread through the air, water, or by insects.
Risk Factors for HIV Infection
The primary risk factor for HIV infection is unprotected sexual contact with someone who is HIV-positive. HIV can also be spread through sharing needles, a practice that is common among intravenous drug users. HIV can be passed from a mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
Prevention of HIV Infection
The most effective way to prevent HIV infection is to practice safe sex by using condoms and/or other barrier methods. Abstinence from sexual contact is another way to avoid HIV infection. People who use intravenous drugs should never share needles and should always use sterile needles. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should talk to their healthcare providers about the risks of HIV transmission to their unborn child.
Testing for HIV
People who are at risk for HIV infection should be tested regularly. Testing can help identify people who have been infected and need treatment to reduce their risk of transmitting the virus. It is also important for people who are living with HIV to get regular medical care to help them manage their condition and reduce their risk of transmitting the virus to others.
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