Does Kissing Transmit HIV? Fact or Myth?

HIV/AIDS is still a topic shrouded in myths and misconceptions. One of the most frequently asked questions is whether HIV can be transmitted through saliva, like when kissing.

Many people worry about contracting HIV by kissing someone living with HIV (PLWH). Well, in this article, we'll uncover the facts! Read the full explanation below!

Myth 1: HIV is Transmitted Through Saliva

Fact: MYTH! 🙅‍♀️🙅‍♂️

HIV is not transmitted through saliva. So, you are SAFE to kiss, share cutlery, or drink from the same glass as a PLWH.

The HIV virus is present in bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. However, the amount of virus in saliva is very small and not enough to cause infection.

Moreover, saliva contains antibacterial and antiviral substances that can destroy the HIV virus.

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Myth 2: HIV and AIDS are the Same Disease

Fact: NOT THE SAME! 🙅‍♀️🙅‍♂️

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system. While AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the final stage of HIV infection.

Someone infected with HIV does not necessarily get AIDS immediately. With proper and regular treatment, PLWH can live healthy and productive lives for many years without developing AIDS. 💪

Myth 3: PLWH Cannot Have Children

Fact: THEY CAN! 😊

With advances in medicine today, PLWH can still have children without transmitting the virus to their partners and children.

• For men with HIV: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the amount of virus in the blood to undetectable levels. This makes the risk of HIV transmission to partners and children very low, even close to zero.
• For women with HIV: ART can also prevent transmission of the virus to the baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.

Myth 4: Sharing Needles Doesn't Transmit HIV if the Needle is Washed

Fact: MYTH! 🙅‍♀️🙅‍♂️

HIV can be transmitted through needles contaminated with the blood of PLWH, even if the needle has been washed. The HIV virus is strong enough to survive inside a syringe.

Therefore, it is very important to always use sterile, disposable needles. 💉

Myth 5: PLWH Always Look Sick

Fact: NOT ALWAYS! 🙅‍♀️🙅‍♂️

In the early stages of HIV infection, many PLWH do not show any symptoms. They can appear healthy and active like everyone else.

Therefore, it is important to get tested for HIV regularly, especially if you have risk factors.

Remember!

Correct knowledge about HIV/AIDS is very important to prevent transmission and eliminate stigma against PLWH. Let's spread accurate information and support PLWH to live healthy and productive lives! 😊

Sources:

• Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. (2022). National Guidelines for HIV and AIDS Management. Jakarta: Ministry of Health RI.
• UNAIDS. (2023). Global AIDS Update 2023. Geneva: UNAIDS.
• World Health Organization. (2021). HIV/AIDS. Accessed from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hiv-aids

Hope this is useful! 😊