Understanding HIV Transmission: How is HIV Spread?

How can you get HIV?

HIV is transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. This can happen through:

* Unprotected sex: Having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has HIV without using a condom.

* Sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia: Sharing needles, syringes, or other drug paraphernalia with someone who has HIV.

* Blood transfusions: Receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant from someone who has HIV.

* Mother-to-child transmission: A pregnant woman with HIV can pass the virus to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

How can you get AIDS?

AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. It occurs when the virus has severely weakened the immune system, making the person more vulnerable to life-threatening infections and certain types of cancer.

There is no cure for HIV, but there are effective treatments that can slow the progression of the disease and help people with HIV live longer, healthier lives. If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, it is important to get tested as soon as possible so that you can start treatment if necessary.