Prevention 'main Strategy’ (Press, 16 May 1989)
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Summary: Prevention 'main Strategy’ (Press, 16 May 1989)
On 16 May 1989, a policy discussion document addressing the H.I.V./A.I.D.S. epidemic in New Zealand was released in Wellington by the National Council on A.I.D.S. Titled "The H.I.V./A.I.D.S. Epidemic: Towards a New Zealand Strategy," the document emphasised that prevention should be the primary strategy as there were currently no effective treatments for H.I.V. infection and A.I.D.S. The document highlighted New Zealand's proactive response to the epidemic, taking advantage of a time-lag before the virus reached the country. This foresight allowed the nation to understand the modes of transmission beforehand, resulting in a more measured public response compared to other countries that faced hysterical reactions. The National Council on A.I.D.S. aimed to promote effective prevention policies and support for those living with H.I.V./A.I.D.S. The council stressed the importance of ongoing cooperation between the Government and community groups to share expertise and resources. It pointed out that while the established policies for education and prevention in New Zealand were generally effective, better coordination between government efforts and community organisations was necessary. Furthermore, the document called for clearer prioritisation and long-term planning to prevent the spread of the infection. While the policy paper did not provide specific recommendations, it outlined current policies and posed questions to gather public input. This feedback would be reviewed by the council to inform the final policy document, which is expected to be presented to the Minister of Health, Ms Clark, in October 1989. The council expressed hope that this document would lay the groundwork for H.I.V./A.I.D.S. policy initiatives in New Zealand over the following three to five years, addressing both central government and regional health board levels.
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