A.I.D.S. Publicity (Press, 14 January 1986)

In a letter published on 14 January 1986, Varian J. Wilson criticises the predictions regarding the rise of A.I.D.S. cases in New Zealand and Australia, arguing that such predictions are based on unfounded guesswork. He challenges claims made by Kate Leslie from the A.I.D.S. Foundation and Bill Ryan from the Gay Taskforce about the expected increase in A.I.D.S. cases, stating that the real issue lies in the failure of the homosexual community to heed advice on safe sex practices and drug use. Wilson suggests that A.I.D.S. has likely been present for years but has gained attention only due to changes in societal behaviours among homosexuals, which he believes have exacerbated the issue. B. Butcher, responding to a previous report in "The Press" that cited 220 cases of A.I.D.S. in Australia, clarifies that the actual number is around 150 and asserts that the rate of A.I.D.S. cases has slowed in Australia, contrary to initial fears of a mass epidemic. He cites improvements in education and changes in sexual practices, particularly within the gay community, as factors contributing to the slowed rate of increase. Butcher expresses hope that New Zealand could replicate these actions to keep A.I.D.S. cases at bay, estimating that the number could realistically be no more than 50 by the end of 1986, rather than the 100 previously projected.

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