Seminars On A.I.D.S. (Press, 11 August 1984)

A new and concerning disease, A.I.D.S. (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), is expected to emerge in New Zealand, according to Mr Bruce Burnett, co-ordinator of the newly established A.I.D.S. Support Network. This statement was made during his visit to Christchurch, where he was holding seminars aimed at educating both the homosexual community and health-care professionals about the disease. Burnett highlighted that while New Zealand has not yet seen widespread A.I.D.S. cases—aside from a single individual from Taranaki who contracted it abroad—there are already 11 known cases in Australia. He stressed that the arrival of A.I.D.S. in New Zealand was not a matter of if, but when. Health authorities are particularly concerned about potential cases in Auckland due to A.I.D.S.'s long incubation period, which can extend up to three years. During this period, an individual may appear healthy and not show symptoms while still being contagious. Some New Zealanders are currently under investigation due to fears they may have A.I.D.S. or related conditions that could be more prevalent than the full-blown disease itself. Burnett explained that A.L.D.S. (a mild, non-fatal form of A.I.D.S.) is debilitating and highly contagious, with symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, swollen lymph glands, and recurrent minor infections. Burnett stated that the symptoms of A.I.D.S. and A.L.D.S.-related conditions are significant because they resemble those of other diseases but last longer and tend to be more severe, complicating the diagnosis. Globally, it is estimated that about 5,000 cases of A.I.D.S. exist, with potentially 50,000 to 100,000 individuals suffering from A.L.D.S.-related conditions. The illness is believed to be caused by a virus transmitted through body fluids, particularly via intimate contact, exposure to infected blood, or sharing needles. In comparison to the United States, the risk of contracting A.I.D.S. through blood products in New Zealand is lower, as blood donors in New Zealand are not compensated. A screening test for blood samples is being developed in the United States, anticipated to be available in New Zealand within approximately six months. While there is currently no cure for A.I.D.S. and developing a vaccine could take up to ten years, preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of transmission. These preventative steps are similar to those used to avoid other sexually transmitted diseases. The seminars, funded by the A.I.D.S. Support Network, aim to educate attendees on enhancing health and minimising risks during sexual activity. Burnett, who has experience working in a counselling service for A.I.D.S. victims in San Francisco, plans to hold separate sessions for homosexual men and medical staff at the Lambda Centre in Christchurch. The network was established to aid individuals with A.I.D.S., provide public education, and improve healthcare quality for those affected.

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