There are a lot of misconceptions about HIV and the people living with it. Because of these misconceptions, stigma continues to be one of the biggest barriers to ending the epidemic.
HIV is not passed on by usual contact with people
You can live or work safely alongside someone with HIV or AIDS. You can hug and kiss them, shake their hand, share a telephone or toilet, and swim in the same swimming pool, without any risk to your health.
How HIV is Spread
HIV is passed from person to person in infected blood and body fluids, ie:
- blood (including menstrual blood)
- semen
- vaginal secretions
- breast milk.
