How Do You Get HIV?

The most common ways of getting HIV are:

Unprotected sex. HIV can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The virus is present in semen, vaginal fluids, and rectal fluids. When an infected person ejaculates or pre-ejaculates, the virus can enter the body of their partner through small tears in the lining of the vagina, rectum, or mouth.

Sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia. HIV can also be transmitted through sharing needles, syringes, or other drug paraphernalia that have been contaminated with infected blood. This is a common route of transmission among injection drug users.

Blood transfusions or organ transplants. In the past, HIV was sometimes transmitted through blood transfusions or organ transplants. However, today, blood and organs are carefully screened for HIV, and the risk of getting HIV from a blood transfusion or organ transplant is very low.

Mother-to-child transmission. HIV can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. The risk of mother-to-child transmission is highest in women who are not receiving treatment for HIV.

It's important to note that HIV is not spread through casual contact, such as touching or hugging an infected person. The virus is also not spread through the air, water, or food.