Guides Show The following list includes just a few examples of questions we get from people worried about catching HIV. Most of these questions come from a combination of fear and ignorance. They come from a lack of confidence in understanding HIV transmission. You can NOT catch HIV from:
The above are all real examples sent as questions to i-Base. They show that ignorance about HIV is still common. Effective barriers against HIVThere are many effective barriers that prevent infection. Skin: Skin is an excellent barrier against HIV, unless there is an open cut or open wound. Infectious fluid on skin is NOT a route for infection. Mucous membranes in the mouth, throat and stomach: These membranes are good barriers against HIV infection, so long as there are not cuts, ulcers or sores. Saliva: Saliva contains proteins and a low salt content that actively reduce its infectiousness. Even when HIV is detected there is too little to cause infection. HIV is not transmitted by kissing including deep kissing. Spit cannot transmit HIV. Air: HIV is not transmitted by air. Latex and rubber: Condoms prevent infection from HIV and many other sexually transmitted infections. Many sexual situations have no risk of transmitting HIV. These include masturbation (by yourself or with a partner), kissing and deep kissing, receiving oral sex and vaginal or anal sex using a condom correctly. Last updated: 1 June 2021.
Most people get HIV through anal or vaginal sex, or sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment (for example, cookers). But there are powerful tools to help prevent HIV transmission. You can get HIV if you have anal sex with someone who has HIV without using protection (like condoms or medicine to treat or prevent HIV).
You can get HIV if you have vaginal sex with someone who has HIV without using protection (like condoms or medicine to treat or prevent HIV).
HIV can be transmitted from a mother to her baby during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding. However, it is less common because of advances in HIV prevention and treatment.
You are at high risk for getting HIV if you share needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment (for example, cookers) with someone who has HIV. Never share needles or other equipment to inject drugs, hormones, steroids, or silicone.
There is little to no risk of getting HIV from the activities below. For transmission to occur, something very unusual would have to happen. Oral Sex
Workplace
Medical Care
Food Contamination
Biting and Spitting
Deep, Open-Mouth Kissing
Touching
Tattoos and Body Piercings
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