Worldwide, and in the Caribbean, most people become infected with HIV through unprotected sex, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex, and through injection drug use (sharing needles). Certain body fluids including blood, pre-ejaculation, semen and vaginal secretions, can spread HIV. An HIV-infected woman can pass HIV to her baby through pregnancy, labor or delivery, as well as through breast milk.

HIV is NOT transmitted through casual contact. You cannot become infected with HIV by hugging, touching, sneezing, coughing, playing sports, sharing eating utensils, or sharing a bathroom or swimming pool with a person who is infected with HIV. According to public health authorities, contact with saliva, tears, or sweat has never resulted in HIV transmission. Mosquitoes, fleas and other insects also do not transmit HIV.