U.k. Comes To Grips With A.I.D.S. (Press, 1 December 1986)

In December 1986, Britain is confronting the A.I.D.S. crisis, five years after it first emerged in the United States. The media is heavily featuring A.I.D.S. in stories and editorials, emphasising the government's lack of response to what some deem "the greatest peace-time challenge" of their lives. In an effort to take more decisive action, the British government is launching a television advertising campaign and distributing leaflets promoting safe sexual practices to every household. These initiatives include attention-grabbing messages aimed at various demographics about the dangers of A.I.D.S. and the importance of knowledge. As of now, A.I.D.S. has claimed the lives of 284 Britons and the number of cases is reportedly doubling approximately every 10 months. Around 30,000 people are believed to be carriers of the virus, with a significant portion potentially developing the disease. In response to growing public concern, there is an increased demand for A.I.D.S. testing, highlighted by a six-to-seven-fold rise in inquiries to testing clinics according to Dr William Harris of a London hospital. Critics have pointed out that the British government's response has lagged behind that of the United States, where thousands have already succumbed to the disease. To address preventive measures, the Health Department is contemplating the distribution of free needles to drug addicts. However, despite public campaigns run by numerous charities, confusion and fear regarding transmission continue to pervade. A recent poll indicates that a substantial portion of the population supports widespread testing for A.I.D.S., with many advocating for screening all individuals entering the UK. Public anxiety was amplified during a contentious debate over the establishment of a hospice for A.I.D.S. patients in west London, given that a significant proportion of sufferers reside in that region. Health officials and charities are striving to mitigate fears, with initiatives such as helplines and pamphlets dispelling myths related to safe practices in communal settings, like receiving communion. Nonetheless, there are still recommendations advising caution, such as using gloves when serving communion to A.I.D.S. patients. The government has allocated £20 million for public education on A.I.D.S.; however, health workers assert that more funding is necessary to support hospitals coping with the increase in inquiries and testing demands. The analysis of test results is experiencing delays, as the number of samples overwhelms existing laboratory capacities. While there is some optimism regarding new medications to manage the virus, health officials maintain that the most effective preventive measures remain monogamous relationships and safe sex practices. The Social Services Minister, Norman Fowler, has reiterated this advice, which has positively influenced the market for condoms, as interest surged in companies like London International, makers of Durex. In further efforts to combat the crisis, the government is also considering lifting the ban on television advertisements for condoms, aimed at promoting awareness without worrying about social sensitivities.

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