Heterosexuals A.I.D.S. Risk (Press, 27 October 1984)
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Summary: Heterosexuals A.I.D.S. Risk (Press, 27 October 1984)
On 27 October 1984, Mr Bruce Burnett, a co-ordinator for an A.I.D.S. Support Network, addressed concerns about the potential spread of A.I.D.S. in New Zealand, suggesting that heterosexuals might face a greater risk compared to their counterparts in Australia and the United States. Speaking at a seminar during the Venereological Society’s conference, Burnett explained that while gay men in New Zealand were likely to be the first group affected due to their interactions with infected individuals abroad, heterosexuals were also vulnerable. Burnett highlighted a critical difference between New Zealand and other countries, noting that the presence of 'gay ghettos' in places like the United States and Sydney allows the virus to remain more contained within specific communities. In contrast, New Zealand's gay population is more dispersed, making transmission of A.I.D.S. more probable across the broader population. He noted statistics estimating that approximately 10 per cent of men identify as homosexual, and around 40 per cent have had at least one homosexual experience during their lives, stressing that even a single homosexual encounter could potentially lead to infection with the virus. The A.I.D.S. Support Network aimed to educate both homosexuals and the general public about A.I.D.S. and various prevention strategies. However, Burnett pointed out significant barriers, primarily due to the legal status of homosexuality in New Zealand, which complicated their efforts in outreach and education. Notably, he identified a prevailing attitude within the gay community of denial, with many believing that the crisis was confined to overseas rather than being a concern in New Zealand. In light of these challenges, Burnett urged Dr Bassett, the Minister of Health, to allocate funding towards a campaign focused on preventing A.I.D.S. and other sexually transmitted diseases, underscoring the necessity for a proactive approach in educating the public to counteract the potential spread of the virus.
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