NCJ Number
108348
Date Published
1987
Length
29 pages
Annotation
These guidelines, in question-and-answer format, discuss the etiology, transmissibility, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Abstract
AIDS is a complex viral disease that attacks the immune system, leaving victims vulnerable to various opportunistic infections and diseases. High-risk groups for AIDS include homosexual and bisexual males, intravenous drug users, their sexual partners, and children born to women with AIDS. Although a relatively new disease, AIDS is spreading rapidly. It is transmitted through sexual contact and/or contact with contaminated blood and blood products (including through sharing of contaminated needles). AIDS is not transmitted through casual contact. A test for the AIDS antibody is available to evaluate exposure to the human immunodeficiency virus, although it cannot indicate if an exposed individual will develop AIDS. While children can get AIDS, screening and special precautions are usually not needed because AIDS is not spread by routine daily contact. Preventive efforts include increased knowledge about the disease, screening of blood, voluntary antibody testing, practicing safe sex (including using condoms), and avoiding intravenous drug abuse. Guidelines for home and medical care of AIDS patients are provided, and legal and human rights issues are discussed. A list of resources is appended.