Protect Yourself

Although there is no vaccine for HIV, infection is largely preventable. It's what you do - not who you are - that puts you at risk of getting infected.

There are several ways you can get HIV:

• Having unprotected sexual intercourse (vaginal, anal or oral)
• Sharing needles or equipment for injecting drugs
• Using unsterilized needles for tattooing, skin piercing or acupuncture
• Occupational exposure to HIV in a health care setting

There are several ways to reduce your risk of HIV infection:

• Use a latex or polyurethane condom when engaging in vaginal, anal or oral sex. Although no form of protection is 100 per cent effective, when used properly a condom can significantly reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Use a water-based lubricant to reduce the risk of condom breakage (Vaseline® or oil-based products weaken the effectiveness of latex condoms).
• Never share needles or other drug use equipment.
• If you are getting a tattoo, body piercing or acupuncture, ensure that the equipment being used is sterile. The safest way to get a tattoo or piercing is to go to a professional.
• If you work in an environment where you may come into contact with someone else's blood or with needles (e.g., a health care facility), always take precautions to prevent exposure to HIV. Wear protective medical gloves and handle used needles with care.
• Ensure that you are not infected with other sexually transmitted infections that may be increasing your susceptibility to HIV (for more information, see What you need to know about STIs.)
• If you are pregnant and concerned about HIV, talk with your doctor about being tested. Early treatment with medication can prevent the transmission of HIV from mother to baby before birth. Pre- and post-test counselling are also important, so be sure to talk with your doctor about this when discussing being tested.

The only way to be 100 per cent safe against HIV infection is to not engage in sexual or other activities where body fluids (blood, semen or vaginal fluids) are exchanged. If you have engaged in risky behaviour, get tested to protect your health and to avoid infecting others.

More information on HIV prevention and risk reduction guidelines.