People who are infected with HIV can transmit the virus to others. The virus is present in blood, semen, saliva and tears, but the virus is not present in the urine. The virus is also present in vaginal fluid and breast milk. To become infected with HIV, the virus must enter the bloodstream.

Transmission can occur in the following ways:

• Accidental sticks from a needle used by someone who has HIV
• Anal intercourse
• Blood transfusions
• From mother to baby during birth
• From mother to baby during breast-feeding
• Oral sex
• Sharing needles
• Vaginal intercourse

HIV cannot spread by touching a person who has HIV or by living with a person who has HIV.