Final answer:
No, HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact. It is only transmitted through direct contact of mucous membranes or body fluids such as blood, semen, or breast milk. Saliva can carry the virus, but it won't spread it unless it gets into the bloodstream.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact such as hugging or holding hands. HIV is transmitted through direct contact of mucous membranes or body fluids such as blood, semen, or breast milk. It can be transmitted through sexual contact or the use of contaminated needles, as well as from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth or breastfeeding. Saliva can carry the HIV virus, but it won't spread it unless it gets into the bloodstream.