Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

HIV is transmitted only through the intimate exchange of body fluids, specifically blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and mother's milk (Dane and Miller 1990). HIV is sometimes passed perinatally from mother to fetus, or through breastfeeding (Mulvi-hill 1996). HIV levels in the bloodstream are typically highest when a person is first infected and again in the late stages of the illness. High-risk behaviors include unprotected anal and vaginal intercourse (without condom) and intravenous drug use. Before blood screening began in 1986, the virus was also being contracted from transfusions and blood-clotting agents.