Can Kissing Cause HIV and Aids?
December 11, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is primarily transmitted through specific bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. Saliva alone does not contain enough of the virus to transmit HIV. Therefore, casual kissing (such as closed-mouth or peck kisses) without the exchange of blood or open sores in the mouth is considered extremely low risk or negligible for transmitting HIV.
HIV is not transmitted through saliva, and the virus is not typically present in high enough concentrations in saliva to pose a significant risk of transmission through kissing. Additionally, intact skin (like the skin inside the mouth) provides a strong barrier against HIV transmission.
However, it’s important to note that deep, open-mouth kissing or “French kissing” involving the exchange of saliva and intimate contact with bleeding gums, sores, cuts, or lesions in the mouth could potentially pose a very low risk of transmitting HIV if one partner is HIV positive. Though the risk is considered extremely low, it’s advisable to avoid deep kissing or oral contact if there are open sores or bleeding in the mouth to reduce any theoretical risk of transmission.
Transmission of HIV typically occurs through activities involving the exchange of bodily fluids that allow the virus to enter the bloodstream, such as unprotected sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) and sharing of needles or syringes with an HIV-positive person.
It’s essential to practice safe sex, use condoms during sexual activities, get tested regularly for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and avoid sharing needles or other injecting equipment to reduce the risk of HIV transmission. If there are concerns about HIV exposure or transmission, seeking guidance from healthcare professionals or HIV prevention resources can provide accurate information and appropriate support.