How is HIV Transmitted?
How is HIV Transmitted?
Understanding HIV transmission: Knowledge is your best defense.
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is primarily transmitted through specific bodily fluids that contain high concentrations of the virus. The most common modes of HIV transmission include:
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is primarily transmitted through specific bodily fluids that contain high concentrations of the virus. The most common modes of HIV transmission include:
Vaginal Intercourse
Vaginal Intercourse
HIV transmission can occur when HIV-infected bodily fluids, such as semen or vaginal fluids, come into contact with the mucous membranes or breaks in the skin of the genital area. Unprotected vaginal intercourse carries a risk of HIV transmission, particularly if one partner is HIV-positive.
Anal Intercourse
Anal Intercourse
Anal intercourse carries a higher risk of HIV transmission than vaginal intercourse because the rectum’s lining is thin and can tear easily, allowing HIV-infected fluids to enter the bloodstream through these tears.
Oral Sex
Oral Sex
The risk of HIV transmission through oral sex is lower than vaginal or anal sex but not zero. It can happen if there are cuts, sores, or bleeding gums in the mouth, allowing HIV-infected fluids to enter the bloodstream. However, this risk is much lower than with unprotected vaginal or anal sex.
Sharing Needles or Syringes
Sharing Needles or Syringes
HIV can spread through sharing needles, syringes, or other injecting equipment contaminated with the blood of an infected person. This is common among people who inject drugs.
Mother-to-Child Transmission
Mother-to-Child Transmission
HIV can be passed from an HIV-positive mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. However, with proper treatment like antiretroviral therapy (ART) and avoiding breastfeeding in some cases, the risk can be greatly reduced.
Blood Transfusions or Organ Transplants
Blood Transfusions or Organ Transplants
Although rare, HIV can be transmitted through receiving infected blood transfusions, blood products, or organ transplants. However, rigorous screening of blood and organ donations has greatly minimized this risk in many countries.
Occupational Exposure
Occupational Exposure
Healthcare workers or other individuals may be at risk of HIV transmission through accidental needle sticks or exposure to infected blood or other bodily fluids in healthcare settings. However, the risk of transmission in these situations is low.
