Transmission routes of AIDS
May 26, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sexual behaviors, including homosexual, heterosexual, and bisexual activities. Mucosal tissues (such as the rectum and vagina) are prone to damage, allowing the virus to enter the body. Although condoms can reduce the risk, they are not 100% effective. Having multiple sexual partners and engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors significantly increase the likelihood of infection. Sharing unsterilized syringes also poses a risk.
AIDS is generally transmitted through sexual contact, blood transmission, and mother-to-child transmission.
1. Sexual transmission: The HIV virus can be transmitted through unprotected sexual activities, including homosexual, heterosexual, and bisexual behaviors. Mucosal tissues (such as the rectum and vagina) are prone to damage, through which the virus can enter the body. Although condoms can reduce the risk, they are not 100% effective. Having multiple sexual partners and engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors increases the likelihood of infection.
2. Blood transmission: Sharing unsterilized syringes and needles, receiving blood or blood products containing the virus, or using contaminated surgical instruments can all lead to direct entry of the virus into the bloodstream. Additionally, there is a risk of infection if broken skin comes into contact with infected blood. Strict medical protocols and instrument sterilization must be followed.
3. Mother-to-child transmission: Pregnant women infected with HIV can transmit the virus to their fetuses or infants during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. The virus may enter the newborn's body through the placenta, birth canal, or breast milk. However, with proper antiviral treatment, cesarean delivery, and formula feeding, the risk of mother-to-child transmission can be reduced to less than 5%.
In daily life, it is recommended to maintain a monogamous relationship and use condoms correctly. If blood transfusions or injections are necessary, choose reputable medical institutions and ensure that the blood and blood products used have undergone rigorous testing.
