Forum on Mixed-HIV-Status Couples: room mates who don't know

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		room mates who don't know May 7, 2007 i don't have any current sexual partners or a lover. but i have room mates who don'r know that i am HIV-positive and i'm not sure when or how to tell them. i know it's probably important to tell them and i would really like to, but until the day comes that i do tell them, how much of a risk level are they on as far as contracting it from living every day life with me? do i need to take any extra-special preventative care?


		Response from Dr. Remien Most experts would say there is no risk from everyday household contact. If you are not having unprotected sex or sharing needles with your room mates, risk of HIV transmission is essentially non-existent. It would also make sense for you to not share any equipment that may come in contact with blood or genital secretions, such as razors or sex toys. You may want to spend some time on the Safe Sex and HIV Prevention forum on this website. It sounds like you may have other reasons for disclosing to your room mates so that it is no longer a secret you are carrying. You may also find that you get emotional support from them. If so, you may want to look for opportunities to discuss the topic and see where it leads.

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