Facts About HIV & AIDS In the Body

With so many myths and misconceptions floating around about HIV, it can be hard for some people to distinguish the truth from fiction. This is especially true in regards to the ways in which HIV is transmitted, and ignorance about these facts can lead some people to fear and discrimination.

Location of the HIV Virus in the Body

1. HIV is found in bodily fluids such as breast milk, vaginal fluid, seminal fluid and blood. The virus doesn't live in or on the skin or other solid tissues of the body.

HIV Doesn't Live in All Bodily Fluids

2. Though HIV lives in body fluids, it is not found in saliva, urine or tears. HIV also does not survive to be passed through the body in fecal matter.

Sexual Transmission

3. HIV can be transmitted during unprotected anal, vaginal or oral sex. The correct and consistent use of condoms can prevent this. Though male-to-female transmission is the most common type in regards to sexual transmission, female-to-male transmission is still possible.

Intravenous Transmission

4. The second most common method of transmission is the sharing of needles. It is recommended that all drugs users join a needle exchange program where available; if one is not available, make sure that needles are sterilized properly and thoroughly before each use.

Casual Contact Does Not Spread HIV

5. Casual contact cannot transmit HIV from one person to another. This includes hand-holding, sharing dishes and eating utensils, hugging, kissing, petting, sharing a drink or cigarette or using the toilet after an HIV-infected person.