Because of a lapse in government funding, the information on this website may not be up to date, transactions submitted via the website may not be processed, and the agency may not be able to respond to inquiries until appropriations are enacted.

The NIH Clinical Center (the research hospital of NIH) is open. For more details about its operating status, please visit cc.nih.gov.

Updates regarding government operating status and resumption of normal operations can be found at OPM.gov.

How is HIV not spread?

There is no evidence that HIV is spread by:

  • Contact with saliva, tears, or sweat
  • Shaking hands
  • Hugging
  • Sharing food utensils
  • Sharing linens, like towels and bedding
  • Swimming in the same pool
  • Normal contact children experience in schools and homes
  • Using the same telephone
  • Using the same toilet seats
  • Bites from insects or other animals
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