Positive Space Coalition of Peel
Advice
How can a person become infected by the virus?
HIV is present in blood, semen, vaginal fluids and breast milk. Through one of these body fluids, the virus must enter a break in the skin or be absorbed through mucous
membranes (eg eyes, mouth) of another person to pass on the infection. HIV cannot be passed through casual contact such as hugging or kissing.
HIV is spread by:
- sharing drug equipment, needles and/or syringes
- anal sex (penis in rectum)
- vaginal sex (penis in vagina)
- oral sex:
- if semen enters the mouth
- if menstrual blood/vaginal fluids contact the mouth
- sores present on the mouth or genitals may increase the risk of transmission
- sharing sex toys
- an infected mother to her unborn or breastfed baby
- unsterile equipment for tattooing, electrolysis, ear/body piercing, acupuncture
- receiving donated organs and semen before July 1987 when screening began in Canada receiving blood or blood products before November 1985 when screening began in Canada
HIV cannot be spread by:
- casual, every day contact
- shaking hands
- hugging, kissing
- coughing, sneezing
Services
Youth Beyond Barriers Program
Drop in groups for queer and trans youth age 12-17 years of age.
Youth interested in attending these groups should contact the program prior to attending group.
The groups take place in central Brampton and in central Mississauga from 6.30pm to 8pm.
We are currently seeking new group members.
Youth, parents, and friends of queer & trans youth can access this program via
www.aysp.ca or www.postivespacepeel.org or call 1.800.762.8377. ext.460 or at
