As I said earlier, the HTLV-IH virus is related to, but does not cause, AIDS, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome and the related disease ARC, AIDS-Related Complex. Both involve the weakening of our immune system. There is still no cure. It is the moral responsibility of anyone who has sexual contact with persons at risk of carrying the AIDS virus to be tested for the AIDS antibody. Persons who are immunopositive, who are tested carefully and with verification, should not exchange bodily fluids during sex until such time as they are proven to be no longer infectious. There is no safe way to have sex and exchange bodily fluids with an infected person. There are, as you have read, many ways to be intimate, to be sexual, including touching, holding, caressing, rubbing, self- and partner masturbation, and sharing of fantasy and sexual imagery. AIDS can be deadly, but it is still relatively hard to catch.
AIDS cases have increased 59 percent in 1986. There are now almost thirty-three thousand verified cases in seventy-four countries, according to the World Health Organization, representing an increase of twelve thousand cases since the beginning of 1986. Cases could increase tenfold in the next five years. I believe that enhancement of our natural immunity, emphasis on sexual intimacy and commitment over time, the use of condoms when sexually active with a new partner or partner who may have been exposed to the AIDS virus, and support, help, and understanding for AIDS patients are all important elements in the battle to survive this health crisis.
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