Complacency Over A.I.D.S.? (Press, 5 March 1988)

Staff at the Burnett Clinic in Auckland have expressed concern that the public may be becoming complacent about AIDS, as evidenced by a significant decline in the number of people seeking AIDS tests and pre-test counselling. This change in behaviour has coincided with an increase in the number of individuals identified as HIV positive who are seeking assistance. Mr. Dick Johnstone, a senior counsellor at the clinic, noted that for much of the previous year, the clinic primarily provided pre-test counselling services, but the focus has shifted towards supporting those who have tested positive for HIV antibodies and are experiencing health issues. The clinic’s records indicate a notable rise in the number of clients needing help. In July 1987, only seven people with HIV positive status were documented, whereas by December that figure grew to an average of 29. Recently, this number has surged to 59 individuals actively seeking help for conditions associated with their HIV status. In contrast, the demand for pre-test counselling services has drastically decreased. At peak times in 1987, the clinic would see up to 60 people weekly seeking these services. Currently, that average has dropped to about 25 people each week. The staff at the clinic are alarmed by this trend, as it suggests a reduction in prevention and awareness efforts among the public regarding AIDS and HIV.

The text on this page is created, in the most part, using Generative AI and so may contain errors or omissions. It is supplied to you without guarantee or warranty of correctness. If you find an error or would like to make a content suggestion please get in contact

The text on this page is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 New Zealand