HIV infection is spreading throughout the country. The government estimates that 1 in 300 Americans is now infected. HIV infection and AIDS are rising among women, racial and ethnic minorities and young people. Parents should know, in the United States, the number of HIV-infected teenagers now doubles every 14 months. Knowledge about HIV and AIDS is increasing rapidly.
All people can place themselves at risk.
Today, scientists know that the real danger is high-risk behavior. HIV infection and AIDS can be prevented by changes in behavior. HIV infection is spread through blood, semen or vaginal secretions. HIV is transmitted when the blood, semen or vaginal secretions of an HIV-infected person come into contact with another person's blood stream. Use unsterile needles in other situations, such as tattooing or body piercing.