How Does Someone Get HIV From Using Needles?
Sharing needles or syringes with an infected person, even once, is an easy way to be infected with HIV and other germs. Sharing needles to inject drugs is the most dangerous form of needle sharing. Blood from an infected person can remain in or on a needle or syringe and then be transferred directly into the next person who uses it. Sharing other types of needles also may transmit HIV and other germs. These types of needles include those used to inject steroids and those used for tattooing or piercing. Anyone planning to get pierced or get a tattooed should make sure they go to a qualified technician who uses sterile equipment. Don’t be shy about asking questions. Reputable technicians will explain the safety measures they follow.
