Dear lx_alex07,

No. You can't get HIV from kissing someone. HIV is transmitted in blood, semen, breast milk, and vaginal fluids. HIV is most commonly spread from one person to another through

• having unprotected sexual intercourse with someone who has the virus
• sharing needles or syringes with someone who has the virus
• being deeply punctured with a needle or surgical instrument contaminated with the virus
• getting HIV-infected blood, semen, or vaginal secretions into open wounds or sores

A pregnant woman infected with HIV can also pass the virus to her fetus during her pregnancy or delivery. Hugging or sharing a drink with someone infected with HIV is safe. HIV can't be transmitted through casual contact.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.