Four fluids transmit HIV into the body and bloodstream of another person:
- Blood
- Semen (including pre-ejaculate)
- Vaginal fluids
- Breast milk (of someone with HIV)
- Anal fluid
Some people have become infected with HIV from blood transfusions or blood products; however, since 1985, donated blood has been tested so the risk is extremely low.
Unlike colds or flu viruses, HIV is not transmitted through the air, by touching, or by everyday casual contact. You do not have to worry about getting HIV from:
- A food server, eating utensils or food
- Pets or insect bites
- Donating blood
- Using public rest rooms, drinking fountains or swimming pools
- An HIV + person sitting next to you
- Sharing telephones computers and gym equipment
- Shaking hands, hugging or social (dry) kissing where no open sores or cuts are present
The best way to prevent HIV is to know your status. Radiant Health Centers provide free confidential testing. Click here to learn about testing hours and locations and other testing sites around the county.
For more information or to speak confidentially to a Radiant Health Centers’ Health Educator, please call 949.809.8771 or via e-mail at: thendrix@radianthealthcenters.org.