NCJ Number
109088
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 50 Issue: 1 Dated: (February 1988) Pages: 62-63,79-80
Date Published
1988
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Transmission of acquired immune deficiency syndrome presents an issue of concern to both inmates and correctional staff.
Abstract
Growing evidence indicates that most inmates become infected with the AIDS antibody through intravenous drug abuse, and that most infections occur before incarceration. Three studies in correctional institutions found no evidence of transmission during incarceration in a military prison and evidence of transmission at a rate of less than .5 percent per year in two Maryland prisons. Nonetheless, inmates can and do import the disease into correctional facilities. Since infection is not spread through routine correctional activities, education of inmates and staff is the best preventive measure. Employees need to be reassured and educated regarding the use of appropriate infection control procedures during possible blood and body fluid exposures. Education has taken the form of interagency sharing of information, the development of numerous educational aides (brochures, manuals, films), organized national surveillance, and the development of policies and procedures. The correctional community has responded well to the challenge of AIDS through open communication, education, and surveys.