WHO CAN GET HIV/AIDS?

The prevalence of HIV infection among sexually active men and women varies according to geographical area or population subgroup, such as heterosexuals, men who have sex with men (MSM), sex workers, or injectingdrug users. Generally, the likelihood of becoming infected with HIV sexually is related to the number of sexual partners and unprotected sex acts you have. In other words, the more sexual partners you have, the greater your chance of becoming infected. The less protection that is used during sexual activity, the higher the risk of contracting or transmitting HIV. Remember: it takes only one act of unprotected sex to put you at risk for HIV.

Disease patterns differ substantially between and within regions. Heterosexual transmission is the primary source in sub-Saharan Africa and in the Caribbean, while men who have sex with men represent the largest share of cases in Latin America and in many industrialized countries. In Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and parts of South Asia and Latin America, injecting-drug use is the primary source of HIV infections.

Kissing has not been shown to transmit AIDS, as saliva itself does not appear to carry the virus. However, if there is bleeding of the gums or the presence of mouth sores, there is a chance of transmission.

In other words, it is very important that you KNOW YOUR SEXUAL PARTNER and ALWAYS USE CONDOMS during sexual intercourse.

ACCESS TO SAFE BLOOD SUPPLIES AND STERILIZED EQUIPMENT:

The United Nations, through agencies like the World Health Organization, has established reliable blood transfusion centres to ensure safe blood supplies. However, all UN employees are urged to adopt measures to reduce serious injuries in motor vehicle accidents, not only for obvious reasons, but because they represent a particular risk for HIV infection in those localities lacking safe blood supplies.

The most important thing you can do to ensure that you have minimized your risk of contracting HIV is to think in advance about ways you might come into contact with the virus and how you can plan to avoid transmission.

For more information, we recommend you read the booklet “Living in a World with HIV/AIDS: Information for United Nations Employees and their Families.” (See Internet Links).