DISEASES TRANSMITTED THROUGH INTIMATE CONTACT

AIDS / HIV

Risk:

AIDS is found throughout the region. In Central Africa, heterosexual transmission accounts for the majority of the cases, with men and women more of less equal. In addition, many women of child bearing age are infected, and HIV transmission from mother to infant is widespread. The risk to a traveler depends on whether the traveler will be involved in sexual or needle-sharing contact with a person who is infected with HIV. Receipt of unscreened blood for transfusion poses a risk for HIV infection.

Prevention:

No effective vaccine has been developed for HIV. Travelers should avoid sexual or needle-sharing contact with a person who is infected with HIV. If a blood transfusion is necessary, screened blood should be from an HIV-negative blood donor.