A.I.D.S. Test Little Use As Diagnosis (Press, 20 March 1985)
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Summary: A.I.D.S. Test Little Use As Diagnosis (Press, 20 March 1985)
On 20 March 1985, concerns were raised regarding the use of a new A.I.D.S. antibody test that was set to become available in New Zealand. Mr Bruce Burnett, the Health Department’s A.I.D.S. liaison officer, warned that individuals who suspected they might have A.I.D.S. should not rely on this test as a conclusive measure for the disease. The tests, which were being sourced from the United States, were primarily intended for use by blood transfusion centres to screen blood donors. Mr Burnett expressed alarm over the possibility that "at risk" individuals might attempt to give blood solely to access the testing, suggesting this could pose a significant risk of A.I.D.S. entering the blood supply. He emphasised the urgent need for public education to help those at risk recognise their status and avoid donating blood. Mr Burnett clarified that the antibody test should not be seen as a diagnostic tool for A.I.D.S. Instead, it was designed for use in screening donated blood and for scientific research. He noted that a positive result merely signified past exposure to the virus thought to cause A.I.D.S., without implying that the individual would necessarily develop the disease. Importantly, there is currently no method to confirm active infection through this test, as some people may take up to six months to develop detectable antibodies for A.I.D.S. Thus, a negative result does not guarantee that a person has not been infected; it could simply indicate that the antibodies had not yet developed. Mr Burnett’s comments underscored the complications and limitations associated with the antibody test, pointing to the importance of cautious interpretation and the necessity for informed public awareness in the face of an evolving health crisis.
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