The Jamaica Star :: Health :: Does spit contain HIV?

Dear Counsellor:

I don't have HIV and I want to stay uninfected. However, I'm still very concerned about one particular body fluid - spit. Are we sure that HIV is not in spit?

Worried Writer

Dear Worried Writer:

We can easily check body fluids for the amount of HIV the virus that causes AIDS. The only body fluids with enough HIV to cause transmission are blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. Saliva (spit) contains so few viruses (if any at all) that there is no way near enough to cause infection. It definitely takes a certain concentration of HIV to cause infection and so saliva simply cannot cause transmission.

If there were visible blood present in the saliva/spit then infection is possible, but it would still have to get inside another person's blood stream.

Can one contract STI after a hysterectomy?

Dear Counsellor:

I had a burning pain whenever I pass my urine and sometimes I noticed a white discharge coming from my vagina. I went to the doctor and he told me I'm infected with a sexually transmitted infection. I cannot believe him because I did hysterectomy two years ago. Tell me, can a person who had hysterectomy done become infected with sexually transmitted infections?

C. P.

Dear C.P.

Yes, you can get sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV the virus that causes AIDS whether you had a hysterectomy done or not. If you are sexually active the only sure way to protect yourself is to use a condom every time you have sex (oral, vaginal and anal) or have sex with only one person who you know is not infected with STI/HIV.

Remember, you cannot tell if a person is infected by just looking at them. It is also very important for you to follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

I am pregnant and HIV positive.

Will my baby get infected?

Dear Counsellor:

I'm writing to you because I'm very worried, I feel like I'm going out of my mind. I'm two months pregnant and I tested HIV positive. What can I do?

Worried Pregnant Mother

Dear Worried Pregnant Mother:

I'm indeed sorry to hear that you tested HIV positive. Be hopeful, as it is possible that you could have a baby who is free from infection with HIV the virus that causes AIDS.

There are treatments available that a pregnant HIV infected woman could take to prevent her baby from becoming infected. That is why it is extremely important for you to consult an HIV knowledgeable physician as soon as possible.

For more information on condom use, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections call the AIDS/STD Helpline at 967-3830, 967-3764 or toll free at 1888-991-444 or write to AIDS Affairs c/o the Star, 7 North Street, Kingston.