NCJ Number
103198
Date Published
1986
Length
26 pages
Annotation
This information booklet for jail administrators provides facts about the nature and symptoms of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), its transmission, preventive measures, and implications for legal liability.
Abstract
AIDS is an incurable disease that damages the immune system. Symptoms include diseases like Kaposi's sarcoma and lymphoma, extreme fatigue, night sweats, swollen glands, weight loss, shortness of breath, and diarrhea. AIDS is spread through the exchange of blood and body fluids as a result of sexual contact or the use of unsanitary needles by intravenous drug users. About 93 percent of AIDS victims are male homosexuals, male bisexuals, or intravenous drug users. People who transmit the disease and employers who dismiss AIDS victims from employment may be held liable in connection with AIDS. The potential liability of correctional administrators is unknown. Preventive measures which should be taken by all people are avoiding sexual contact with people who may have AIDS, avoiding use of intravenous drugs, and avoiding sex with multiple partners. Health care and laboratory professionals should use the same precautions as in handling Hepatitis-B victims. Emergency workers should wear protective gear if they risk contact with blood or body fluids of an AIDS victim. Sources of additional information, abstracts of selected AIDS literature, one correctional department's policy, and copy of a National Institute of Justice 'Research in Brief' report on AIDS.