Transmission Risk
HIV is classified as a blood-borne illness, and is typically spread through contact with bodily fluids like blood, semen and vaginal secretions.
Below are some of the ways you can get HIV:
Having unprotected sex with an infected person, including both vaginal and anal sex
Sharing of needles or syringes with a person infected with HIV
Being born to an HIV-positive mother (perinatal HIV transmission)
Transfer of HIV-infected blood, tissue, or organs (currently rare due to screening protocols)
Occupational Exposure to HIV-infected blood or other body fluids – for instance, health careworkers have been infected after pricking themselves with a contaminated needle, or the accidential splash of HIV-containing fluids in their eyes or mouth
It is important to understand that HIV is not transmitted through casual contact such as hugging, shaking hands, sharing dishes, or drinking from the same glass with someone who is HIV-positive.
Prevention
The best way to prevent HIV transmission is to avoid contact with infected bodily fluids. This includes:
Always use a latex condom when having sex
Avoid contact with menstrual blood and semen
Refrain from sharing needles, syringes, razor blades or other drug paraphernalia
Use protective eyewear when working with infected blood
Men who have unprotected sex with other men and those with multiple sexual partners should consider getting an HIV test regularly
HIV is an incurable disease, but through prevention and proper access to treatment, it can be managed effectively.