Can You Get HIV From Touching Someone With AIDS? - Facts About Transmission

No, you cannot get infected with HIV by simply touching someone who has AIDS. HIV is not transmitted through casual contact such as shaking hands, hugging, or touching. It is primarily transmitted through specific body fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, when they come into contact with open cuts or sores, or mucous membranes (e.g., the rectum, vagina, penis, or mouth). It is important to practice safe behaviors, such as using barrier methods during sexual activities and avoiding sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, to prevent the transmission of HIV.