How is HIV/AIDS transmitted?

How is HIV transmitted

You cannot get HIV infection from drinking from a water fountain, contact with a toilet seat, or touching an infected person. You can get HIV infection from:

• Bodily fluids, including semen and vaginal secretions (through sexual contact with an infected person) and blood. There is no evidence that HIV infection is transmitted through saliva.
• Infected blood from shared drug injection needles or an accidental stick with a needle contaminated with infected blood.
• Infected blood and blood products though transfusion (this is rare in developed countries but still occurs in countries with inadequate blood donor testing programs). Women with HIV infection can transmit the virus to their babies during pregnancy or delivery or through their breast milk.

HIV Prevention

Do not have sexual contact with any persons (opposite- or same-sex partners) unless you are sure they are free of HIV infection. This includes oral, anal, or vaginal contact of any type.

If your partner has had prior sexual experience, even if you believe you are in a mutually monogamous relationship, to protect yourself, use a new latex condom each and every time you have any sexual contact, unless you are certain that your partner is HIV negative. However, keep in mind that condoms can break. If you are allergic to latex, polyurethane condoms are available

If you inject drugs, seek treatment and do not ever share needles with others. Use only a new, clean needle each time you inject.