It is not possible to acquire Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) through casual contact like a handshake. HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. Understanding its true modes of transmission helps address common misunderstandings and promote effective prevention.
How HIV is Transmitted
HIV is transmitted through direct contact with specific bodily fluids from a person who has a detectable viral load of HIV. These fluids include blood, semen (including pre-seminal fluid), rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. For transmission to occur, the virus in these fluids must enter the bloodstream of an HIV-negative person. This typically happens through mucous membranes, which are found in areas such as the rectum, vagina, mouth, or the tip of the penis, or through open cuts or sores.
The most common ways HIV is transmitted are through unprotected vaginal or anal sex, and by sharing needles or syringes for injecting drugs. Anal sex carries a higher risk than vaginal sex due to the delicate tissues in the rectum that can tear easily, providing entry points for the virus. Transmission can also occur from a mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or through breastfeeding. While less common, contact with contaminated blood, such as through accidental needle sticks in healthcare settings, can also transmit HIV.
Common Misconceptions About HIV Transmission
HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, such as shaking hands, hugging, or social kissing. The virus cannot survive or reproduce outside a human host. Therefore, HIV is not spread by sharing toilets, food, or drinks, nor can it be transmitted through insect bites like those from mosquitoes.
Saliva, tears, and sweat do not transmit HIV unless visibly contaminated with infected blood, and even then, transmission is unlikely due to enzymes in these fluids. Activities like sharing household items such as cups, plates, or cutlery, or using public facilities like swimming pools or showers, also do not transmit HIV. The virus is not spread through air or water.
Protecting Yourself from HIV
Consistent and correct use of condoms during sexual activity is a primary method, creating a barrier that prevents the exchange of fluids that can transmit the virus. Using new, sterile needles and never sharing injection equipment for drugs is also essential for prevention.
Knowing one’s HIV status and that of sexual partners through regular testing is an important step in prevention. Early detection allows for timely treatment, which can significantly reduce the amount of virus in the body, making it undetectable and preventing sexual transmission. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) involves HIV-negative individuals taking daily medication to reduce their risk of acquiring HIV from sex or injection drug use, with high effectiveness when taken consistently. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is an emergency medication regimen taken within 72 hours after a potential HIV exposure to prevent infection.