Which Activities Are Most
Likely to Transmit HIV?

How HIV Is Transmitted 

HIV is found in certain bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. Under certain circumstances, contact with these fluids can cause infection.  

In order for transmission to occur, bodily fluids must come in direct contact with a person’s blood stream (via injection) or make contact with broken skin or a mucous membrane (which includes the nose, mouth, and other areas of the body).  

Based on these facts, HIV is most likely to be transmitted in the following ways: 

• Intercourse (both anal and vaginal sex) 
• The sharing of needles or other drug paraphernalia 

It’s also possible for a mother to transmit HIV to her baby. However, proper medical care can prevent pregnant and nursing women from passing the infection on.   

Misconceptions About HIV Transmission 

Despite popular myths, you cannot get HIV from: 

• Kissing or sharing beverages (the virus does not live in saliva) 
• Hugging or shaking hands 
• Through insect bites 
• Touching something an infected person touched 

Getting HIV through oral sex is also unlikely, but it can occur if infected semen makes contact with broken skin inside the mouth.  

How to Reduce Your HIV Risk 

There are ways you can avoid being infected with HIV, including: 

• Practicing safe sex by always using a condom during intercourse 
• Avoiding intravenous drug use or only using clean needles 
• Taking certain medications (such as pre-exposure prophylaxis) 

If you believe you’ve been exposed to the virus, get tested right away. Timely testing will prevent HIV from being spread to others and ensure that you receive proper medical treatment.