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Avoiding Hysteria In War On A.I.D.S. (Press, 14 March 1987)

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Summary: Avoiding Hysteria In War On A.I.D.S. (Press, 14 March 1987)

The 'Economist' discusses the growing threat of A.I.D.S. and the implications of measures taken by governments in response to the disease. A recent incident in Bavaria, where an American was arrested for causing bodily harm after knowingly engaging in sexual relations while infected with A.I.D.S., highlighted the seriousness of the crisis. In response, Bavarian authorities have mandated A.I.D.S. testing for high-risk groups such as prostitutes, drug users, and civil service job applicants, while requiring certain foreigners to prove they are virus-free. The article outlines the dire situation in central Africa, where A.I.D.S. has entrenched itself over the past decade, and details the alarming statistics in the United States, where about 31,000 people have contracted the disease, with a significant portion having already died. The piece emphasises that traditional strategies for managing contagious diseases, such as quarantining, are ineffective against A.I.D.S., which is primarily spread through sexual contact and does not present immediate visible symptoms in those infected. A.I.D.S. does not spread like conventional plagues because it manifests over an extended period, often leaving individuals healthy-looking for years post-infection. Consequently, the notion of quarantine becomes impractical in Western societies, where such measures would require a level of stigmatization that contradicts modern democratic values. Instead, the 'Economist' suggests that effective strategies should focus on education and prevention, rather than compulsory identification and isolation. The article argues that compulsory testing is counterproductive as it could deter those at high risk from seeking tests, and instead calls for voluntary testing offered in clinics which have proven effective in identifying infections. Those diagnosed can then receive proper guidance to modify their behaviours, such as using condoms and reducing sexual promiscuity, which can help mitigate the spread of the virus. The discussion concludes with the assertion that while governments must manage the spread of A.I.D.S., they can do so without sacrificing individual rights or resorting to coercive tactics. Instead, constructive approaches that promote safety and informed behaviour will contribute more significantly to curbing the outbreak within society.

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Publish Date:14th March 1987
URL:https://www.pridenz.com/paperspast_chp19870314_2_111.html