The only way to protect from contracting AIDS sexually is to abstain from
sex outside of a mutually faithful relationship with a partner whom the person
knows is not infected with the AIDS virus. Otherwise, risks can be minimized
if they:
- Don't have sexual contact with anyone who has symptoms of AIDS or who is
a member of a high risk group for AIDS.
- Avoid sexual contact with anyone who has had sex with people at risk of
getting AIDS.
- Don't have sex with prostitutes.
- Avoid having sex with anyone who has multiple and/or anonymous sexual
partners.
- Avoid oral, genital and anal contact with partner's blood, semen, vaginal
secretions, feces or urine. Unless they know with absolute certainty that
their partner is not infected, a latex condom should be used during each
sexual act, from start to finish.The use of a spermicidal agent may provide
additional protection.
- Avoid anal intercourse altogether.
- Don't share toothbrushes, razors or other implements that could become
contaminated with the blood of anyone who is or might be infected with the
AIDS virus.
- Exercise caution regarding procedures, such as acupuncture, tattooing,
ear piercing, etc., in which needles or other nonsterile instruments may be
used repeatedly to pierce the skin and/or mucous membranes.
Such procedures are safe if proper sterilization methods are employed or
disposable needles are used. Ask what precautions are taken before undergoing
such procedures.
- If an individual is scheduling surgery in the near future, and is able,
they could consider donating blood for their own use. This will eliminate
completely the already very small risk of contracting AIDS through a blood
transfusion. It will also eliminate the risk of contracting other bloodborne
diseases (such as hepatitis) from a transfusion.
If a person is an IV drug user, adhere to the prevention tips mentioned
earlier, as well as:
- Get professional help for terminating the drug habit.
- Do not share needles or syringes. Be aware that some street sellers are
resealing previously used needles and selling them as new.
- Clean the needle before using.
Some people apparently remain well after infection of the AIDS virus. They
may have no physically apparent symptoms of illness. However, if proper
precautions are not used with sexual contacts and/or intravenous drug use,
these infected individuals can spread the virus to others.
Anyone who thinks he or she is infected, or who is involved in high-risk
behaviors, should not donate his or her blood, organs, tissues, or sperm as
they may now contain the AIDS virus.
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