5 Ways Peopⅼe Can Contact HIV/AIDS Apart From Sexual Intercourse
HIV/AIDS is a serious and life- threatening condition that can be transmitted through various means. While sexual contact is the most well- known mode of transmission, there are other ways in which people can come into contact with the virus. In this article, we will explore five ways in which individuals could potentially contact HIV/AIDS aside from sex.
Blood Transfusion
Prior to the implementation of rigorous blood screening procedures, people usually contacted HIV through receiving contaminated blood or blood products during a transfusion. Nowadays, blood donation centers and hospitals have strict protocols in place to ensure the safety of the blood supply, which can reduce the risk of HIV transmission through this route.
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Vertical Transmission
HIV can be passed from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding. This type of transmission is known as vertical transmission or mother- to- child transmission. With proper medical care and the use of antiretroviral medications, the risk of this transmission can be greatly reduced.
Sharing Of Needles Or Syringes
Drug users who share needles or syringes with an infected person are at a high risk of contracting HIV. The virus can be transmitted through the exchange of contaminated blood during the injection process. Proper disposal and the use of clean, sterile needles and syringes are crucial in preventing the spread of HIV through this route.
Tattooing And Piercing
If the equipment used for tattoos or body piercings is not properly sterilized, it can potentially transmit HIV. It is essential to ensure that the facility and the technicians follow strict hygiene protocols to minimize the risk of HIV transmission.
Occupational Exposure
Healthcare workers, such as doctors, nurses, and lab technicians, may be at risk of contracting HIV through accidental exposure to infected blood or bodily fluids during the course of their work. Proper safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment and adherence to universal precautions, are crucial in reducing the risk of occupational exposure to HIV.