The transmission of HIV, also known as Human Immunodeficiency Virus, can occur in various ways. However, saliva is not a common route for HIV transmission. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you cannot get HIV through closed-mouth kissing or saliva.

This means that engaging in activities such as sharing food, drinks, or utensils with someone living with HIV does not pose a significant risk of contracting the virus. Additionally, casual contact like hugging, shaking hands, or being in close proximity to someone with HIV is also not a transmission route for the virus.

In fact, the CDC states that there is little to no risk of getting HIV through oral sex. This is because the virus is primarily transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, and breastmilk. The most common way to get HIV is through unprotected anal or vaginal sex with someone who is unaware they have HIV or who does not have their HIV controlled with antiretroviral (ARV) treatment.

It's important for individuals living with HIV to take steps to prevent transmission, such as using antiretroviral therapy (ART) and practicing safer sex. For people at risk of contracting HIV, using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can be an effective way to prevent infection. PrEP involves taking a daily pill or receiving an injectable medication from a healthcare provider.

It's also important for pregnant women living with HIV to work closely with their healthcare providers to minimize the risk of transmitting the virus to their infant. While there is still some risk of transmission during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding, ongoing antiretroviral treatment can reduce this risk to less than 1%.

In summary, while HIV transmission through saliva is extremely rare, it's crucial for individuals living with and without HIV to understand the various ways the virus can be transmitted. By taking steps to prevent transmission and practicing safer sex, we can work towards reducing the spread of HIV.

Hiv transmission through saliva