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HIV ''(Human Immunodeficiency Virus)'' is an infectious human [[retrovirus]] that causes [[Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome]] ''(AIDS)''.  

HIV ''(Human Immunodeficiency Virus)'' is an infectious human [[retrovirus]] that causes [[Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome]] ''(AIDS)''.  

HIV is primarily spread by sexual contact and intravenous drug use. Most early infections in the US were via homosexual sex, most current infections in the world are via heterosexual contact and vertical transmission from mother to child. ch mothers infected with HIV transmit the virus to their baby ''in utero'', or via breastfeeding.

HIV is primarily spread by sexual contact and intravenous drug use. Most early infections in the US were via homosexual sex; most current infections in the world are via heterosexual contact and vertical transmission from mother to child. Mothers infected with HIV transmit the virus to their baby ''in utero'', during childbirth, or via breastfeeding. Mother-to-child transmission can be significantly reduced by the proper use of antiretroviral agents.

* Contact with infected blood. This can include any physical contact with the blood of an infected person, including blood transfusions.

 

Other less likely means of transmission exist, though are rare. These include contact with the saliva, sweat or tears of an infected person.

Less commonly, contact with infected blood causes HIV transmission. This can occur in health care providers (HCPs) or others exposed to infectious bodily fluids.  Transmission is facilitated by breaks in the skin or direct contact with mucosal tissues, such as those found in the eyes, mouth, anus, or vagina. Early in the epidemic, blood transfusions were a significant source of HIV transmission.

 

Other less likely means of transmission exist, though are rare. There are no confirmed cases from contact with the saliva, sweat or tears of an infected person.