What is the primary method of HIV transmission?

The primary method of HIV transmission is through sexual contact and blood. This is due to the way the virus is spread; HIV is found in high concentrations in certain bodily fluids, particularly blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. During unprotected sexual intercourse, the virus can be transmitted from one individual to another through mucous membranes present in the genital area or rectum. Additionally, sharing needles or syringes can facilitate direct blood-to-blood contact, which is another highly effective route of transmission. Understanding these transmission methods is crucial for implementing effective prevention strategies, such as safe sexual practices and needle exchange programs, to reduce the spread of HIV.

In contrast to this, airborne transmission refers to pathogens that spread through tiny particles in the air, which is not a route for HIV. Fomites are inanimate objects that carry infectious agents, yet this is not a mode of transmission for HIV, as the virus does not survive long outside the human body. Direct contact with saliva does not typically result in HIV transmission since saliva contains much lower concentrations of the virus compared to other fluids. Thus, focusing on sexual contact and blood as main avenues for HIV spread highlights the importance of targeting educational and preventive efforts in these areas.