Likely Female-to-Female Sexual Transmission of HIV — Texas, 2012
Although the risk of sexual transmission of HIV between
women who have sex with women (WSW) is low, the potential for transmission
exists because HIV can be transmitted when certain bodily fluids (e.g.,
menstrual blood; vaginal fluids; etc.) come into contact with a mucus membrane
or a cut or abrasion. This report documents a case with unique circumstances
pointing to likely sexual transmission between female partners. In this
case, the discordant couple (one HIV-infected partner and one uninfected
partner) routinely had direct sexual contact – without using barrier methods
for protection – that involved the exchange of blood through abrasions received
during sexual activity. Because all other HIV risk exposures were ruled out for
the newly infected partner, it is likely she was infected by her female
partner. The authors note that, although HIV transmission between women is
possible, it remains rare. This report underscores the need for all couples –
including WSW – to take steps to prevent transmission, including avoiding all
contact between HIV-infected blood or blood-contaminated bodily fluids and
broken skin, wounds or mucus membranes.
0 comments :
Post a Comment