how do you get hiv

 how do you get hiv

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system and can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). HIV is primarily spread through certain bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. Here are the most common ways in which HIV can be transmitted:

• Unprotected sexual contact: HIV can be spread through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Unprotected sex with an infected person is the most common way that HIV is transmitted.

• Sharing needles: HIV can also be spread through sharing needles, syringes, or other injection drug equipment with an infected person.

• Mother-to-child transmission: HIV can be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

• Blood transfusions: HIV can be spread through blood transfusions, although this is rare in countries where blood is screened for HIV.

It's important to note that HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact, such as hugging, shaking hands, or sharing utensils.

The symptoms of HIV can vary depending on the stage of the infection. In the early stages, symptoms may be flu-like and include fever, headache, and fatigue. In later stages, as the immune system becomes weakened, more serious symptoms can occur, such as frequent infections, weight loss, and neurological symptoms.

There is no cure for HIV, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) can help manage the infection and prevent the development of AIDS. It's important to get tested for HIV if you think you may have been exposed, as early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the infection and prevent transmission to others.

To prevent the spread of HIV, it's important to practice safe sex by using condoms consistently and correctly, and to avoid sharing needles or other injection drug equipment. HIV-positive mothers can also take antiretroviral medications during pregnancy and childbirth to reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission.

Tweet