Panic Is The Real Plague (Press, 1 March 1985)

In early March 1985, concern escalated among police officers, firefighters, and funeral directors regarding the potential dangers they face when interacting with individuals affected by acquired immune deficiency syndrome (A.I.D.S.). This anxiety stems from the serious nature of A.I.D.S. and the uncertainties surrounding the virus, including its cure and prevention. Medical opinions on key issues such as quarantine, screening, and contagion risks are inconsistent, contributing to public fear. Health authorities’ reassurances often lack clarity, with some downplaying the issue by stating that only a small percentage of those exposed to A.I.D.S. may develop the condition. However, such minimisations do little to alleviate public anxiety, especially when there are conflicting reports about transmission methods. At this stage, all reported deaths in New Zealand have been linked to infections acquired overseas. Nevertheless, experts warn that it is likely only a matter of time before A.I.D.S. establishes a presence within the country, and the possibility of an epidemic looms. Hence, there is a pressing need for a public education campaign from health authorities that effectively communicates the current state of knowledge and addresses public fears, while remaining free from the influence of special interest groups. Amid ongoing research into A.I.D.S., it is anticipated that the situation may worsen before improving. The Health Department is contemplating the establishment of a confidential register for A.I.D.S. sufferers to aid in controlling the spread of the virus, and there is discussion about making it a notifiable condition, emphasizing the need for doctors to report suspected cases. This is particularly relevant for at-risk populations, such as drug users, who might not seek help voluntarily. Additionally, strict regulations on blood and plasma transfusions are seen as essential to mitigate one of the primary avenues of infection observed globally. The homosexual community, in particular, is noted as having a critical role in addressing the spread of A.I.D.S., as male homosexuals have been identified as a high-risk group. Active participation from this community is crucial not only for their own health but also to mitigate stigma and enhance public understanding, portraying homosexuals more as victims rather than a cause of the disease. With the seriousness of A.I.D.S. and the complexities surrounding it, there is an urge to avoid panic responses to each new revelation. Such reactions could undermine collective efforts for effective prevention and treatment. Overall, there is an emphasis on cooperative efforts within society to tackle the A.I.D.S. epidemic, fostering compassion and understanding during this challenging time.

The text on this page is created, in the most part, using Generative AI and so may contain errors or omissions. It is supplied to you without guarantee or warranty of correctness. If you find an error or would like to make a content suggestion please get in contact

The text on this page is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 New Zealand