1. Medical Equipment : Use of non sterile medical equipment , particularly syringes and needles undoubtedly leads to transmission of HIV, but the exact transmission probability by this method is not known , as the magnitude of problem posed by this route is still not clearly define . However , this should not lead to any complacency since the potential is tremendous . Proper sterilization of all medical equipment, particularly syringes/needles/lancets etc , use of properly sterilized disposables, prevention of recirculation/re-use of disposables and proper biological waste management procedures must be strictly followed.
2. Breast Milk : The probability of transmission through breast milk by an established HIV positive mother seems to be about 14% . The risk seems to be particularly high if the mother breast-feeds the child during the primary phase of her infection. ,However in developing countries with in sanitary environment and consequent hazards involved in artificial feeding, benefits of breast feeding outweighs the risk of HIV transmission , breast feeding is still recommended.
3. Miscellaneous Modes Various other modes remain potential or hypothetical, though may be not so important as per current status of body of scientific knowledge . These include tattooing , sharing of razors, blood contact during scuffles/accidents : and possible transmission by infected health care workers . Decisions regarding the importance of such modes need to be taken considering the overall merits of each of these postulated methods . The role of needle-stick injuries and other occupational exposures among health care workers (HCWs) definitely exists. The risk of HIV infection following percutaneous needlestick exposure to HIV – contaminated blood is estimated to be from 0.13% to 0.5% . In contrast, the risk of Hepatitis B transmission following similar exposure to that virus is 45-120 time as great.
4. We must advise others about the possibility of acquiring infection by these methods and necessary preventive measures to be taken.
