It is spread by contact with certain bodily fluids of a person with HIV, most commonly during unprotected sex (sex without a condom or HIV medicine to prevent or treat HIV), or through sharing injection drug equipment. If untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodefficiency Syndrome) the most advance stage of the infection.
Transmission
HIV is primarily transmitted through specific body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk, typically via unprotected sex or sharing needles.
Modes of Transmission
1. Sexual Contact: The most common way HIV is transmitted is through unprotected anal or vaginal sex with an HIV-positive person. The virus can enter the body through mucous membranes found in the rectum, vagina, or urethra. Anal sex is particularly risky for transmission.
2. Sharing Needles: HIV can also be transmitted by sharing needles or syringes with someone who has HIV. This includes any equipment used for drug injections that may contain infected blood.
3. Mother to Child: An HIV-positive mother can transmit the virus to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. However, with proper treatment, the risk of transmission can be significantly reduced.
4. Less Common Methods: While rare, HIV can be transmitted through oral sex, deep kissing (if there are open sores), and through pre-chewed food if blood from an HIV-positive caregiver mixes with the food.