HIV is spread through infected body fluids (blood, semen, vaginal secretions, rectal fluid and breastmilk) that get into someone’s blood.
This can happen when people:
- have sex (anal, oral, vaginal) without using condoms, vaginal condoms or dental dams
- share needles or other drug use equipment
- share sex toys, razors or toothbrushes
- have HIV and are pregnant, give birth or breastfeed
- use unclean or used equipment for tattoos, piercings or acupuncture
- have contact with an infected object, like a needle, by accident
The risk of getting HIV is higher if a person has other STIs.
HIV cannot be spread by:
- saliva, tears or urine
- talking, shaking hands, working or eating with someone who has HIV
- hugs or kisses
- coughs or sneezes
- swimming pools
- toilet seats or water fountains
- bedsheets or towels
- forks, spoons, cups or food
- insects or animals