What are the transmission routes of AIDS?
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
The main transmission routes of AIDS include sexual contact, blood transmission, and mother-to-child transmission. Infection requires sufficient quantities of the virus to enter a susceptible person's body; everyday contact does not lead to infection. If there is a history of high-risk exposure or symptoms such as persistent fever and fatigue appear, prompt medical evaluation and testing are recommended. Unprotected homosexual or heterosexual intercourse
HIV is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, blood transmission, and mother-to-child transmission. For transmission to occur, a sufficient amount of the virus must enter the body of a susceptible person; everyday contact does not lead to infection. If you have a history of high-risk exposure or experience persistent symptoms such as fever and fatigue, it is recommended to seek medical testing promptly.
1. Sexual transmission: Unprotected sex between same-sex or opposite-sex partners is the primary route of transmission. HIV exists in the semen and vaginal secretions of infected individuals and can enter the partner's body through mucosal contact, leading to infection. Having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of transmission.
2. Blood transmission: Infection may occur through exposure to contaminated blood or blood products, sharing infected syringes, or using personal items such as razors or toothbrushes that may be contaminated with an infected person’s blood.
3. Mother-to-child transmission: Pregnant women infected with HIV may transmit the virus to their babies during pregnancy, childbirth, or through breastfeeding. Proper interventions for mother-to-child transmission can significantly reduce the risk.
To prevent HIV infection, consistently use condoms correctly, avoid sharing needles, pregnant women should undergo HIV screening and follow medical advice for prevention measures, refrain from stigmatizing people living with HIV, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and adopt science-based protective practices to reduce infection risks.
