Dear Reader, 

AIDS, caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), spreads primarily through certain bodily fluids of an infected person. Here are the common ways to understand how AIDS is spread:

1. Unprotected Sexual Contact: HIV is commonly transmitted through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. The virus is present in the blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and rectal fluids of an infected individual.
2. Sharing Needles: HIV can be spread by sharing needles or syringes with someone who is infected. This is often seen among people who inject drugs.
3. Mother-to-Child Transmission: An HIV-positive mother can transmit the virus to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
4. Blood Transfusions: Although rare due to rigorous screening, HIV can be transmitted through blood transfusions or organ transplants from an infected donor.
5. Exposure to Infected Blood: Healthcare workers can be at risk if they come into contact with HIV-infected blood through needle stick injuries or other exposures.
6. Use of unsterilised surgical instruments, tattoos, razor blades, etc., can also spread HIV from an infected person to a healthy person. 

Regarding the alarming number of HIV cases among students in Tripura, the spread of HIV in this population is said to be due to:

• Lack of Awareness: Insufficient knowledge about HIV prevention and transmission can contribute to the spread.
• Substance Abuse: Sharing needles for drug use can be a significant risk factor.
• Stigma and Fear: Fear of seeking information or testing due to stigma may result in undiagnosed and untreated cases, leading to further spread.

Hope this helps.