What is a primary mode of transmission for HIV?

Vertical transmission is recognized as a primary mode of HIV transmission. This occurs when an HIV-positive mother passes the virus to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. This is significant because it highlights the importance of medical interventions such as antiretroviral therapy for pregnant women living with HIV, which can effectively reduce the risk of transmission to the child.

Other modes mentioned, such as saliva, airborne particles, and food and water sources, are not considered primary routes for HIV transmission. Saliva contains very low levels of the virus, making transmission through kissing or sharing utensils extremely unlikely. HIV is not airborne, so it cannot be transmitted through the air or respiratory droplets. Similarly, the virus is not spread through food or water sources, as it cannot survive long outside the human body in these environments. Understanding these specific routes helps clarify how HIV can be effectively managed and prevented in various populations.