The researchers' test-tube studies indicate that saliva inactivates more than 90 percent of the HIV-infected blood cells, breaking the virus apart into non-infectious components and thus blocking by about 10,000-fold the production of HIV and other viruses in those cells.
How much HIV is present in saliva?
Only 1% to 5% of patients' saliva contains infectious HIV although they all carry virus in their blood. At other mucosal surfaces (vaginal and seminal fluids), the percentage of patients shedding infectious HIV is much higher (approximately 20%).Feb 8, 1999
Does saliva contain HIV virus?
No, you cannot catch HIV from kissing. Evidence shows that the HIV virus is spread through the exchange of bodily fluids such as blood, semen and vaginal fluids, but not saliva.
Can you get HIV if blood gets in your mouth?
Although very rare, transmission can occur if both partners have sores or bleeding gums and blood from the partner with HIV gets into the bloodstream of the HIV-negative partner. HIV is not transmitted through closed-mouth or “social” kissing with someone who has HIV. HIV is not transmitted through saliva.
What happens if someone else's blood gets in your mouth?
The risk of an infection being passed on from someone else's blood is lower if the blood only comes into contact with your eyes, mouth, nose, or skin that's already broken. For example, if someone spits in your face, they may have blood in their saliva and it may get in your eyes, mouth or nose.