Sharing personal effects such as a razor, a toothbrush or a sexual toy carries a low risk of transmission of a sexually transmissible or blood-borne infection (STBBI). The risk can be explained by the possible contact with secretions or contaminated blood.
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The personal testimonies have been inspired by real situations.
With the girls playing basketball, we lend each other our razors. In one of my classes, I heard that it wasn’t a good thing to do. I don’t see why. Is it true?
Re: Risks in lending our razors
The information you got in your course is accurate. By sharing some personal objects such as a razor or nail clippers with others, you’re running the risk of contracting an STBBI. This equipment may have been in contact with the blood of someone who used it before you did.
To avoid any risk, it’s better for each of you to have and use your own razor. If you don’t have yours with you, you can wait to get home before you shave.
I heard that there’s someone at my school who has AIDS. I’m really scared. I don’t know who it is. I don’t want to go to school any more. Everybody tells me that I’m panicking for nothing. I don’t know what to think anymore. Am I right?
Re: Somebody has HIV at school
Don’t worry. Many everyday activities such as going to the same school, sharing a meal, drinking from the same glass, kissing someone on the mouth, and holding someone in your arms etc. do not allow transmission of HIV. HIV is only transmitted when there is contact with specific infected biological liquids, i.e. blood, semen, vaginal secretions or breast milk. So, HIV is mainly transmitted in 4 ways:
There is no risk in associating with someone who has HIV. Some precautions have to be taken if you are having sexual intercourse with this person or if you share equipment to take drugs by injection or inhalation.
To get a screening test
Consult Tel-jeunes
