It might take 10 years or more for this retrovirus to overcome the ability of the immune system to respond.
Direct exchange takes place through sexual relations or through the sharing of needles.
Blood transfusion or injury may also expose one to the blood of an infected person. Infected mothers may transmit the virus to their unborn child or at birth and through breast feeding. Studies present strong evidence that several STDs facilitate HIV transmission. HIV is not an airborne virus and cannot be transmitted by casual contacts. Although new medications are promising, not everyone can tolerate the side effects of the drug treatments and no one knows how long the positive effects that have been observed will last.