‘A.I.D.S. Cannot Be Kept Out’ (Press, 22 November 1984)

On 22 November 1984, the Minister of Health in New Zealand, Dr Bassett, announced new measures aimed at combating A.I.D.S. However, the Health Department cautioned that these measures would not fully guarantee that the country's blood supply would be free from the virus. The main advancement includes the implementation of an antibody test for the htlv3 virus, which is linked to A.I.D.S. This testing is set to commence early in the following year, marking a significant step in blood safety. A positive result from this test would indicate that a donor is either infected with the A.I.D.S. virus or has previously come into contact with it. Dr Keith Ridings from the Health Department noted, however, that there is a possibility that some individuals could carry the virus without producing antibodies, thus eluding detection through the antibody test. He emphasised that while the test would significantly reduce risks associated with blood transfusions, the ultimate goal would be to develop a test that detects the virus itself, an advancement that is still unavailable. Dr Ridings estimated the annual cost of the antibody testing at around NZD 500,000 and highlighted that New Zealand might be the first nation to implement this type of testing on a national scale, likely due to its smaller size allowing for cost-effectiveness. As of now, New Zealand has not recorded any locally acquired cases of A.I.D.S., although three men who contracted the disease overseas have since returned, with one of them having died. The disease compromises the immune system severely, making individuals more vulnerable to other infections and diseases, including certain cancers. In response to the heightened risk, the Health Department has advised homosexuals—who are at a greater risk of contracting A.I.D.S.—not to donate blood. Concerns have been raised by the A.I.D.S. Support Network, an organisation established by the homosexual community for education and welfare purposes. Mr Bruce Burnett, the group’s co-ordinator, expressed apprehension that the antibody test could become a vehicle for discrimination against homosexual individuals. He pointed out that a positive test does not necessarily mean a person will develop A.I.D.S., leaving many individuals in a state of uncertainty regarding their health status. He also mentioned potential risks seen in the United States, where there is concern that lists of individuals who test positive might be improperly accessed and stigmatised as homosexuals. He concluded by expressing faith in the New Zealand health authorities, suggesting that they would maintain the confidentiality of such sensitive information.

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