It separates families. It pierces the heart of mankind. HIV is the second leading cause of death for Americans between the age of 25 and 44. Many of these young adults likely were infected as teenagers. It is estimated that half of all new HIV infections in the United States are among people under 25, and the majority of young people are infected sexually.
Unprotected sex is sexual intercourse without consistent and correct condom use.
Using or being stuck with a needle or syringe that has been used by or for an infected person. Giving birth Women with HIV infection can pass the virus to their babies during pregnancy or childbirth. In some cases, they can also pass it on when breast-feeding. Some people have been infected by receiving blood transfusions. However, the risk of infection through blood transfusion has been practically eliminated since 1985 when careful and wide-spread screening and testing of the blood supply for evidence of HIV became standard practice.