Epidemics in perspective. NLM AIDSLINE Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1988. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

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Epidemics in perspective.

J Med Humanit Bioeth. 1987 Fall-Winter;8(2):95-100. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE AHA/88010418
Valdiserri RO

Abstract: Irrational responses to patient with AIDS, particularly in regards to the transmissibility of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) are examined from an historical and psychosocial perspective. Although these responses are similar to those reported from past epidemics such as plague and leprosy, they are in direct conflict with our current level of understanding regarding the transmission of this virus. Their genesis may relate to the human penchant to react to illness metaphorically. In order to allay effectively public concern about the transmissibility of AIDS, it is essential to recognize the metaphor associated with venereal disease in general and AIDS in particular.
Keywords: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/*PSYCHOLOGY *Attitude to Health *Disease Outbreaks Fear Health Education Hospitals Human United States JOURNAL ARTICLE

KWDacquiredimmunodeficiencysyndrome/KWDpsychologyKWDattitudetohealthKWDdiseaseoutbreaksfearhealtheducationhospitalshumanunitedstatesjournalarticle
880130
M8810361

Copyright © 1988 - National Library of Medicine. Reproduced under license with the National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD.

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