Safety is a concern for all, but lets take this opportunity for some education.  Diseases are mainly transmitted through viruses and bacteria.  Viruses such as HIV are blood borne viruses and are transmitted through sexual transmission. Because therapeutic massage does not involve sex, there is no risk of contracting HIV or other blood borne viruses.  If blood is present through a cut or sore on one person, and there is an opening such as cut or sore on another person, there could be a risk. Your massage therapist should be aware of any cuts and abrasions you have on your body and should have any cuts or sores on his hands covered. The use of universal precautions should be applied in both cases as well as avoiding massage on any acute injury. Your therapist should have clean hands and closely clipped nails and should be educated regarding the use of universal precautions.
Should you or your therapist have an infection, cold or virus that can be transmitted through a cough or through the air, then the session should be rescheduled. If you have questions regarding a certain condition, please be sure to ask you therapist before the session and provide him with any necessary medical information for assessment.