Question

What is a consequence of sharing infected needles, as mentioned in HIV transmission?

Options

• Only localized skin infection at injection site

• Direct transmission of HIV through contaminated blood

• Transmission only if needles are reused within 24 hours

• No risk if the needle is cleaned with alcohol

Answer 1

Sharing infected needles, including hypodermic needles used by drug addicts, is a significant mode of HIV transmission. The virus in residual blood on contaminated needles directly enters the bloodstream when the needle is used, providing an efficient route for infection. This is a primary transmission route among intravenous drug users.