How is AIDS transmitted?

Mar 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

The transmission routes of AIDS include sexual contact, blood transmission, mother-to-child transmission, iatrogenic transmission, organ transplantation transmission, etc. It is important to practice safe sex in daily life, maintain a single sexual partner, use condoms correctly, and avoid unsafe sexual practices to help prevent the sexual transmission of AIDS. At the same time, avoid undergoing procedures such as tooth extraction and tattooing at unregulated medical institutions.

Generally, the transmission routes of AIDS include sexual contact, blood transmission, mother-to-child transmission, etc. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Sexual Transmission

Sexual transmission includes homosexual, heterosexual, and bisexual contact. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) exists in bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal secretions, and prostatic fluid of infected individuals. During sexual contact, friction of the genital organs may cause mucosal damage, allowing the virus to enter the body through the damaged area, thus transmitting AIDS.

2. Blood Transmission

Transmission can occur via transfusion of blood or blood products contaminated with HIV. For example, receiving blood transfusions or using blood products that have not undergone rigorous testing in some unregulated medical facilities may lead to HIV infection. Additionally, sharing syringes or needles for intravenous drug use with others can also transmit HIV due to residual virus-containing blood in the syringes.

3. Mother-to-Child Transmission

Pregnant women infected with HIV can transmit the virus to the fetus through the placenta. During delivery, the fetus may become infected by coming into contact with the mother's blood and vaginal secretions. Moreover, the virus can be transmitted to the infant through breastfeeding after birth.

In daily life, it is important to practice safe sex, maintain a single sexual partner, use condoms correctly, and avoid unsafe sexual practices to help prevent the sexual transmission of AIDS. At the same time, avoid receiving injections, tooth extractions, tattoos, or other procedures at unregulated medical facilities, and do not share personal items such as toothbrushes and razors that may lead to blood contact with others.

Related Articles

View All

Can you eat cauliflower when you have a cold and fever?

In general, it is acceptable to eat cauliflower when having a cold or fever, but attention should be paid to the cooking method—opt for light preparations and avoid spicy or irritating seasonings. Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and various minerals. Vitamin C helps boost immunity, while dietary fiber promotes intestinal motility and aids digestion, making it suitable for individuals experiencing physical weakness and reduced digestive function during a cold or fever.

View Full Answer

What conditions can kill the HIV virus?

There are several conditions that can kill the HIV virus, including high-temperature treatment, use of disinfectants, exposure to dry environments, ultraviolet irradiation, and antiviral medications. Items containing HIV can be placed in a 100°C environment for more than 20 minutes, or treated under high-pressure steam at 121°C for 15 minutes, which destroys the viral protein structure.

View Full Answer

Three major symptoms of HIV in men

There is no such thing as the "three symptoms of HIV in men." After men are infected with HIV, they may experience systemic symptoms during the acute phase, latent manifestations during the asymptomatic phase, immunosuppressive symptoms during the AIDS stage, mucocutaneous lesions, and abnormalities in the digestive and nervous systems. Symptoms gradually emerge as the disease progresses. If someone has engaged in high-risk behaviors and develops related symptoms, or suspects infection, medical evaluation is recommended.

View Full Answer

What percentage should adherence to antiviral medication for HIV treatment achieve?

Adherence to antiviral therapy for HIV must reach over 95%, which is a critical requirement for suppressing viral replication and controlling disease progression; falling below this level significantly compromises treatment effectiveness. If long-term adherence is inadequate or adverse drug reactions occur, prompt medical consultation is recommended to adjust the treatment regimen. This level of adherence means missing no more than 1–2 doses per month.

View Full Answer

What are the early physical symptoms of AIDS?

In general, the early stage of AIDS is the acute phase following viral invasion of the body, and common physical symptoms include persistent low-grade fever, swollen lymph nodes, skin rash, gastrointestinal discomfort, and sore throat. Early symptoms of AIDS are nonspecific and can easily be mistaken for a cold or common infection. Individuals with a history of high-risk behaviors who experience these symptoms should promptly undergo HIV antibody testing.

View Full Answer

What are the oral mucosal manifestations of AIDS?

In general, due to impaired immune function, HIV/AIDS patients are prone to various oral mucosal lesions. Common manifestations include oral candidiasis, hairy leukoplakia of the tongue, recurrent herpes outbreaks, linear gingival erythema, and persistent oral ulcers. These oral symptoms are often early signs of AIDS, and individuals with high-risk behaviors should be vigilant.

View Full Answer

What should be done for long-term low-grade fever in AIDS patients?

In general, the main approaches to managing long-term low-grade fever in HIV patients include adequate rest, physical cooling, medication, nutritional support, and screening for complications. Additionally, patients must strictly follow medical advice regarding medication use and should not discontinue or adjust dosages on their own, especially antiviral drugs, which must be taken at regular times and correct doses to prevent drug resistance. Regular monitoring of viral load and immune function is also necessary.

View Full Answer

What should I do about swollen lymph nodes in the neck due to AIDS?

In general, the management of neck lymph node enlargement in AIDS patients mainly includes supportive care, antiviral therapy, anti-infective treatment, traditional Chinese medicine, and immunomodulatory therapy. In addition, patients must strictly follow medical advice regarding medication and should not adjust dosages or discontinue treatment on their own. Regular follow-up tests for viral load, CD4 cell count, and lymph node status are necessary, along with proper personal protection to prevent transmission to others.

View Full Answer

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.