How is HIV transmitted?

Whether you have HIV or not, it is important to understand how it can be passed on so that you can protect yourself and others.

LargeImage

How is HIV transmitted?

HIV is mainly transmitted in one of three ways:

  • by having vaginal or anal sex without condoms
  • by sharing drug injecting equipment, such as needles or syringes
  • from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.

    • It doesn't matter how old you are or what age or sex the person is that you are with: anyone can have HIV or get infected with HIV.

    What about oral sex?

    Sexually transmitted infections - including HIV - can be passed on during oral sex.

    There have been some cases of HIV being transmitted when someone with HIV has oral sex performed on them by a partner who doesn't have HIV. Oral sex is safe the other way round though, so someone without HIV is not at risk if they receive oral sex from an HIV positive partner.

    To reduce the small risk of HIV infection, you can use male or female condoms during oral sex.

    How is HIV not transmitted?

    HIV is not passed on through normal social contact and activities such as:

  • kissing, cuddling or touching someone with HIV
  • sharing household items, such as kitchenware, toilets and bathroom items.

    • HIV is not transmitted by mosquitoes.

    Ask the trainer

    Ask the trainer

    Have a health-related question?  Get your questions answered online by a Health Trainer.