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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How much is the AIDS blocking drug?

If the initial HIV screening test performed at a general hospital is positive, doctors will recommend that you go to the local disease control center for further confirmatory testing, which is free of charge. If the confirmatory test is positive, the disease control center will register and create a file for you, and provide free antiviral treatment. This fully demonstrates the care and attention China provides to people with HIV.

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How to prevent AIDS

The HIV virus primarily exists in the blood, semen, vaginal secretions, pleural fluid, cerebrospinal fluid, and breast milk of people with AIDS. It is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, including homosexual, heterosexual, and bisexual contact, as well as through blood and blood products. This includes intravenous drug injection, invasive medical procedures, and tattooing. There is also mother-to-child transmission, mainly through the placenta during childbirth and breastfeeding. To prevent AIDS, one must avoid the aforementioned behaviors. Everyday actions such as handshakes, hugs, and social kisses, as well as normal daily contact, do not transmit the HIV virus.

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Does AIDS transmit through kissing?

AIDS is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, the most common forms being vaginal and anal intercourse. Infection is more likely when there are no protective measures in place, such as not using condoms, through direct contact of the sexual organs. Kissing carries a relatively low risk of infection. However, if the kissing is deep and there are significant mouth ulcers or bleeding gums present, the risk can increase somewhat. Overall, the risk still exists but is very low.

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Will donating blood result in contracting AIDS?

Donating blood in Chinese hospitals and official blood donation centers does not result in HIV infection because there is HIV screening before donating. During blood donation, the syringes used are disposable. However, if blood is donated at unauthorized or illegal centers, the transmission of HIV cannot be guaranteed.

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What are the body fluid transmissions of AIDS?

Actually, it is quite difficult for the HIV virus to be transmitted through bodily fluids because the HIV virus mainly exists in the blood, semen, vaginal secretions, cervical mucus, breast milk, as well as amniotic fluid, ascites, and pleural effusion of those infected with HIV. Other body fluids, such as sweat, urine, tears, and feces, generally do not contain the virus or contain it in extremely minute amounts, and are unlikely to facilitate transmission. AIDS is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, blood transmission, and from mother to child, and is not transmitted through ordinary contact.