HIV is transmitted through certain body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. These fluids must come into contact with a mucous membrane or damaged tissue or be directly injected into the bloodstream for transmission to occur.

You can prevent HIV by: using condoms correctly every time you have sex; taking PrEP if you're at high risk; ensuring your partner with HIV is on effective treatment; not sharing needles; and using PEP within 72 hours if you think you've been exposed.

U=U stands for Undetectable = Untransmittable. It means that people with HIV who take antiretroviral therapy as prescribed and achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load cannot sexually transmit HIV to others.

Most HIV tests are accurate 4-6 weeks after exposure. However, it can take up to 3 months for antibodies to develop. If you think you've been exposed, talk to a healthcare provider about testing options and consider PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) within 72 hours.

The risk of HIV transmission through oral sex is much lower than through anal or vaginal sex, but it is not zero. The risk increases if there are cuts or sores in the mouth or on the genitals, or if other STIs are present. Using condoms or dental dams can reduce this risk.