How do you get HIV? HIV is transmitted through body fluids: Sexual contact with an HIV-infected partner. Infected blood transfusion - rare today due to thorough screening. Shared needles and syringes contaminated with infected blood. Accidental needle stick injury. Mother to child transmission (via pregnancy or breast-feeding). In rare cases the virus may be transmitted through organ or tissue transplants, through artificial insemination with donated semen, or through unsterilized dental or surgical equipment. HIV is not transmitted via ordinary contact (hugging, dancing, sneezing, talking, touching, or shaking hands) with someone who has HIV or AIDS. HIV is also not transmitted through sweat, tears or saliva; or through sharing food, utensils, towels, bedding, a swimming pool, telephone or toilet seat with someone who has the virus. Plus, HIV is not transmitted through bedbugs or mosquitoes
