Virus Scare At Prison (Press, 22 May 1986)
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Summary: Virus Scare At Prison (Press, 22 May 1986)
In May 1986, a transvestite inmate at Mount Eden Prison in Auckland caused alarm when he tested positive for A.I.D.S. antibodies following a self-mutilation incident. The inmate slashed his hand with a broken bottle and threatened prison guards while being held in the isolation ward of the medical block. This incident raised concerns among both the guards and fellow inmates regarding the potential spread of A.I.D.S., particularly in a facility that has seen its share of health scares. The prison's medical staff were initially uncertain about the inmate’s condition when he self-harmed. Tests indicated a possible positive result for A.I.D.S. antibodies, prompting significant worry in the prison. However, subsequent evaluations led officials to believe that the inmate actually had hepatitis rather than A.I.D.S. Following the incident, Mr. Humphrey Stroud, the superintendent of the prison, confirmed that medical staff had clarified the situation and assured him of the inmate's hepatitis diagnosis. In light of the incident and the concerns raised, prison administrators provided guidelines to officers, allowing them the option to refuse interaction with inmates perceived as high-risk, without fear of retribution. The inmate had been sentenced to 14 days in prison or until a fine was paid. After making the threat, he was eventually released back into the community. The A.I.D.S. scare in the 110-year-old institution was notably unprecedented, having only emerged a couple of weeks prior to this incident. In a separate, unrelated note, the Yaldhurst Transport Museum received a significant addition in the form of an 8-metre Montague whaler, which had been a part of Oaklands School's playground equipment for 11 years before its donation. Museum director Mr. Grant Cooper explained the historical significance of the boat, speculating that it might be around 59 years old, although the exact age is undetermined due to the removal of its identification number. The boat, which had last been used by H.M.S. Black Prince, a cruiser that was decommissioned in 1959, is set to undergo restoration and display at the museum.
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