AIDS transmission routes

Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
Updated on May 09, 2025
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According to the epidemiological survey on AIDS, the most common route of transmission is through sexual contact. Sexual transmission accounts for 90% of all routes of transmission, with the majority of female HIV infections being transmitted from males to females. Currently, 70%-80% of male HIV infections are contracted through homosexual activities. Apart from sexual transmission, infection can also occur through needlestick injuries, tattooing, intravenous drug use, eyebrow tattooing, ear piercing, and similar activities. Pregnant women with AIDS who do not undergo standard prevention may transmit the virus to their babies through mother-to-child transmission.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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What temperature does AIDS fever reach?

People with AIDS, especially in the late stages of the disease, are indeed prone to fever, which can manifest as either high or low-grade fevers. The severity of the fever and its occurrence are greatly linked to various opportunistic infections. If there is a concurrent bacterial infection, it typically results in high fevers, whereas tuberculosis co-infections might cause low-grade fevers and night sweats. If there are other co-infections, such as viral infections, these can also lead to either high or low-grade fevers at times. It’s difficult to specify a definite temperature for fevers in AIDS patients, as it can vary.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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Can tattoos transmit AIDS?

Indeed, tattooing is a risk factor for HIV infection, especially in informal institutions where tattoo equipment may be shared. If the tattooing equipment is not properly sterilized, there is a risk of HIV infection. Tattooing and other forms of needle injuries are also pathways for HIV transmission. However, the most common route of HIV transmission is through sexual transmission, often via unprotected sexual activities. There are also cases of mother-to-child transmission, which should be considered based on specific circumstances.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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initial symptoms of AIDS

People infected with HIV may experience a series of symptoms in the early stages of the disease, about two to three weeks after being infected with the virus. At this time, due to the virus's rapid growth and reproduction in the body, symptoms such as viral viremia can occur, including rash, fever, sore throat, and swelling of lymph nodes throughout the body. These symptoms are reversible and can subside after one to two weeks. Many people infected with HIV may not show any symptoms. The diagnosis of HIV is mainly confirmed through tests such as HIV antibodies, and it is not possible to infer HIV infection based merely on external symptoms.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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Does AIDS affect menstruation?

AIDS is primarily caused by infection with the HIV virus, which then leads to a deficiency in human immune function, destroying the body's CD4 T lymphocyte system. When immune function is severely deficient, it can lead to menstrual disorders and general malnutrition. AIDS can cause immune imbalance and lead to menstrual irregularities, so it is possible for AIDS to affect menstruation. Treatment should be tailored to the specific circumstances, including systematic and standardized anti-HIV treatment and adjustments to one's condition.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Can AIDS be ruled out after six weeks?

Going to the hospital for HIV screening after six weeks is entirely feasible, as it typically surpasses the window period. However, if you have engaged in high-risk behaviors, we recommend that you get tested again after three months. If there are frequent high-risk behaviors, we advise you to undergo another test at six months to thoroughly rule out HIV.