NCJ Number
112393
Journal
Journal of the National Prison Project Dated: (Summer 1988) Pages: 5,7-9
Date Published
1988
Length
4 pages
Annotation
In 1985, 1987, and 1988 national surveys were conducted to examine State and Federal correctional policies and protocols with regard to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Abstract
In 1985, only 420 AIDS cases were identified, while as of April 1988, 1,620 were reported. At both times, the largest concentrations of cases were in New York, New Jersey, Florida, and California. The death rate remained at about 50 percent of total cumulative cases. A disproportionate number of cases were blacks and Hispanics, and most systems reported that the majority of AIDS victims had a history of intravenous drug use. Prevalence studies of incoming inmates show a low rate of seropositivity. While in 1985, most States were still developing AIDS policies, most now have policies on testing, housing, and inmate and staff education. All correctional systems follow or exceed the recommended AIDS testing protocol, and 13 States require mandatory testing upon entry into the system. The Bureau of Prisons tests all inmates prior to release. Almost half of the systems release inmate test results to medical staff and the warden, while at least eight release such information to line staff in contact with the inmates. Most States provide segregated housing for inmates with AIDS and AIDS related complex, while 10 also segregate seropositive inmates. Most States offer staff and inmate education, with 31 offering safe sex education. 10 footnotes.