HIV or Human immunodeficiency virus attacks the immune system and can develop into acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), a very serious disease which weakens the immune system and is potentially lethal.
This virus is transmitted under specific circumstances. By understanding the true facts about this disease rather than believing in various myths about its transmission you can prevent the spreading of HIV.
You must be aware that HIV is transmitted through certain body fluids which contain high concentration of HIV antibodies, as rectal and vaginal secretion, breast milk, blood and semen. HIV CANNOT be transmitted through:
Blood Banks Are Safe.
These days it is really unusual to get HIV from blood transfusion in USA. The donated blood is tested by the Public Health Service since 1985 after the doctors concluded that the donated blood may contain HIV antibodies. Even more tests are conveyed in 1990s to ensure the safety of the donated blood.
Casual Contact and Kissing
A lot of people are scared from touching or kissing someone who is HIV positive. But you must know that this virus does not live on the skin and outside the body. So normal contact like hugging, holding hands or sitting next to someone who is HIV positive is not dangerous.
Also closed-mouth kissing isn’t dangerous – according to UK-based HIV/AIDS organization AVERT. On the other hand open-mouthed kissing can be risky as blood may be involved due to mouth sores or bleeding gyms.
Transmission Myths: Biting, Scratching, and Spitting
With scratching and spitting HIV cannot be transmitted as with a scratching there is no exchange of bodily fluids. But still you can wear gloves if you are drawing blood from someone who is HIV positive.
A bite which doesn’t create deep puncture wound cannot transmit the infection as well, but the bite which causes bleeding can. According to the CDC, these cases are very rare.
So remember: The studies have shown that HIV is not spread through touch, saliva, sweat, tears, sweat, or saliva. You cannot catch HIV by:
• Breathing the same air as someone who is HIV-positive
• Drinking from a water fountain
• Using exercise equipment at a gym
• Hugging, kissing, or shaking hands with someone who is HIV-positive
• Touching a toilet seat or doorknob handle after an HIV-positive person
• Sharing eating utensils with an HIV-positive person
• Using exercise equipment at a gym
Try to be smart and safe with your decisions and reduce the risk of getting infected. Avoid activities that are dangerous and always practice safe sex. Don’t be afraid to run the test or ask your partner to do the same as it is very important to know if you or your partner is HIV positive which will help in making the right decisions.
Sources:
1. http://hivinsite.ucsf.edu/hiv?page=basics-00-07
2. http://www.webmd.com/hiv-aids/top-10-myths-misconceptions-about-hiv-aids
3. http://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/busting-hiv-transmission-myths#9
