Sexual Contact
• Abstaining from sex with others is the surest method to preventing HIV infection through sexual transmission.
• Having sex with one HIV-negative partner who only has sex with you is the next surest method to preventing infection
• When used consistently and correctly, condoms are extremely effective at reducing the risk of HIV transmission.
• Touching, dry kissing, body rubbing and mutual masturbation are some examples of sexual activities that are extremely safe.
• When acquiring a new sex partner, abstain or use condoms for three months and then get tested for HIV. If both partners are HIV-negative and not engaging in other risk behaviors (e.g., sharing needles or having other sex partners), you do not have to worry about HIV infection.

Injection Drug Use
• Abstaining from injection drug use is the most effective way to prevent HIV transmission through drug use.
• If you are injecting drugs, use a brand new syringe every time you inject.
• If new syringes are unavailable, properly bleaching a used syringe may effectively reduce HIV transmission.
• Do not share drug injection equipment (including cookers, cottons and water used for mixing/bleaching) with others.

Information courtesy Public Health – Seattle & King County.

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