By infecting the cells that normally function to rid the body of foreign invaders, HIV is able to effectively destroy the body's normal resistance. Furthermore, the virus redirects the normal cellular machinery to make copies of itself, spreading the infection. For example, recent studies suggest that about one percent of people of western European descent carry a mutation in a gene that encodes a T-cell protein used by HIV to enter the cell, a discovery may lead to a novel form of prevention for others. However, much more research in this area is necessary, and it would be money well spent. Although it may seem obvious by now, the fact is that many are still ignorant about how HIV is spread.
Many people fear casual contact, such as embracing, sharing food, etc.
This ignorance contributes to the prejudice encountered by PWAs. The best prevention is to avoid behavior that is at high-risk for transmission of the virus. In considering all of these means of transmission, it must be remembered that HIV is an infectious agent, not a moral agent, and is subject only to the laws of biology. Anal or vaginal intercourse without a condom is the most effective sexual way to spread HIV infection. As a blood-born agent, HIV is most efficiently spread by direct injection into the bloodstream.