HIV and AIDS Prevention

To prevent becoming infected with HIV:

• Abstain from sex.
• If you do have sex use a male latex condom. This includes any sexual act that results in the exchange of bodily fluids.
• Do not share needles for drug injection.
• Limit your number of sexual partners.
• Avoid sexual partners who are HIV-infected or injection drug users.
• Avoid receiving transfusion of unscreened blood products.
• If you are a healthcare worker:
  • Wear appropriate latex gloves and facial masks during all procedures.
  • Carefully handle and properly dispose of needles.
  • Carefully follow universal precautions.
• If you live in a household with an HIV-infected person:
  • Wear appropriate latex gloves if handling HIV-infected bodily fluids.
  • Cover all cuts and sores, yours and the HIV-infected person's with bandages.
  • Do not share any personal hygiene items such as razors, toothbrushes, etc.
  • Carefully handle and properly dispose of needles used for medication.

Recent studies found that circumcised men were significantly less likely to develop HIV infection compared to uncircumcised men.

To prevent spreading HIV to others if you are HIV infected:

• Abstain from sex.
• If you do have sex, use a male latex condom. This includes any sexual act that results in the exchange of bodily fluids.
• Inform former or potential sexual partners.
• Do not donate blood or organs.
• Ask your doctor about contraception.
• If you do wish to become pregnant, talk to your doctor. There are ways to lower your baby's risk of being born infected with HIV.
• If you have a baby, do not breastfeed.