Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Kissing?

HIV can be transmitted through certain types of kissing, although the risk is low. HIV is present in the body fluids of an infected person, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. If these body fluids come into contact with an open wound or mucous membrane (such as the mouth or eyes), the virus can be transmitted.

While deep kissing (French kissing) can expose an individual to saliva, which may contain small amounts of the virus, the risk of transmission is still low. The likelihood of transmission can be reduced by avoiding kissing when either partner has active mouth sores or bleeding gums, as this increases the chance of contact with bodily fluids.

In summary, the risk of transmission through kissing is low, but it is not zero. To minimize the risk of HIV transmission, it is recommended to practice safe lovemaking, including the use of condoms, and to avoid high-risk activities such as sharing needles with an infected partner. Additionally, getting tested regularly and taking antiretroviral therapy, if prescribed, can help reduce the risk of transmission.