Causes of HIV Infection

HIV infection is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus. It spreads only through certain body fluids, and only when they reach the bloodstream or mucous membranes of another person.

Body fluids that can carry HIV

Blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids and breast milk.

Main ways it spreads

• Unprotected sex (vaginal, anal or, less commonly, oral) with someone who has HIV and is not on effective treatment
• Sharing needles, syringes or other injecting equipment
• Mother to child during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding, if the mother is not on treatment
• Blood transfusion or organ transplant from an unscreened donor, which is now rare where screening is done
• Unsterile needles or instruments in tattooing, piercing or medical settings, where infection control is poor
• Needle-stick injuries in health workers

What raises the chance of infection

• Having another sexually transmitted infection
• Many partners or partners whose status is unknown
• Not using condoms
• Not taking PrEP when at high risk

What does not spread HIV

Touch, hugging, sharing food or toilets, coughing, sweat, tears or mosquito bites.

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda does not describe HIV. Any traditional explanation is interpretive and does not replace medical understanding.

Key point

HIV is not caused by bad luck, character or hygiene. Knowing how it spreads removes fear and helps prevention.

Before your appointment

Write down when you may have been exposed, and any symptoms such as fever, weight loss, cough or diarrhoea. List all medicines, herbs and supplements, and any pregnancy plans. Bring past test reports, including CD4 and viral load if you have them. Ask about testing, treatment, confidentiality, support services and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.