AVON and Somerset Police have apologised for suggesting HIV can be contracted through spitting after announcing the introduction of spit hoods to protect officers.

People with the condition say the misinformation targets an already stigmatised and vulnerable section of society.

Avon and Somerset Police revealed last Friday that they are introducing ‘spit hoods’ from next year.

The mesh, breathable hoods will be put over the heads of suspects who have threatened to spit, have attempted to spit or have spat before.

Assistant Chief Constable Stephen Cullen said: “Each day we face being spat at, putting us at risk of HIV, hepatitis and tuberculosis."

HIV is most commonly contracted through unprotected sex and the sharing of needles. NHS England states HIV cannot be contracted through saliva.

The HIV charity Brigstowe said it was “deeply concerned” by the suggestion that the virus can be transmitted through saliva.

A spokesman said: “It must be understood that HIV and Hepatitis C cannot be transmitted through spitting.

“Suggestions to the contrary are not only incorrect, but are hugely damaging as they reinforce existing stigma and misconceptions that surround both viruses.

“Such falsehoods also cause unnecessary alarm to police staff."

One 28-year-old, who works for a HIV support organisation, complained to the police about their comments.

The man, who asked not to be named, said: “I myself have been spat on and it is extremely degrading and upsetting.

"It is certainly not something any police officer should have to contend with.

"But the police have to realise they have a responsibility not to spread misinformation which could harm some of the most vulnerable people in society.”

Avon and Somerset police tweeted today: "Our apology to anyone who feels that we have stigmatised a group of people in our community.

"This is the very last thing we intended."

But in an official statement to the Bristol Post, the force maintained that HIV was one of the blood-borne viruses that can be transferred by saliva mixed with blood, although it conceded the infection risk was “low”.

A spokesman said: “The most prevalent BBVs are HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.

"Medically, the risk of transfer of BBV through spitting blood or biting is low, but the impact of infection is high and the psychological impact on officers significantly higher.”

There are more than 1,000 people living with HIV in Bristol.