Understanding HIV Transmission

How HIV is Transmitted

• HIV is found in:
  • Blood
  • Semen
  • Breast milk
  • Vaginal fluids
  • Anal mucus
• Transmission methods:
  • Sexual contact: Virus in vaginal fluids or semen enters partner's body through mucous membranes (vagina, anus, top of penis).
  • Mother to baby: During pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding.
  • Sharing injecting equipment.

How HIV is Not Transmitted

• Cannot survive outside the body.
• Cannot be contracted through:
  • Touching
  • Kissing
  • Coughs or sneezes
  • Sharing food

Prevention Methods

• For everyone:
  • Use condoms.
  • Take Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
  • Do not share injecting equipment.
• For HIV positive individuals:
  • Take treatment to reduce viral load to undetectable levels, preventing transmission.

Key Takeaway

• Understanding the methods of HIV transmission helps in taking appropriate protective measures.