Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1991. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
The Associated Press; Thursday, THU November 28, 1991
The state laboratory performing tests for most Florida counties has seen a 20 percent increase in tests.
Some of that increase can be traced to a special testing project in Fort Myers, according to officials with the state Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services. Much of it, however, can be traced to the increased public awareness brought on by Johnson's announcement, they said.
HRS had expected to conduct about 160,000 tests this year, spokesman Stephen Kindland said.
"But now I would expect we'll conduct upward of 180,000 -- mainly because of the news about Magic Johnson."
Most people who are tested are not found to have the HIV virus, which can lead to AIDS. Last year in Florida, about 5 percent of those tested were found to have the virus.
Because Johnson said he probably contracted the virus through heterosexual contact, people who considered themselves at little risk have been shaken up, officials said.
In Tampa, the University of South Florida has seen the demand for testing double.
"At this point, they realize that nobody is infallible," said Dr. Maria Anderson, director of student health services at USF. "Anybody can get the disease if they don't take care of themselves."
In Pinellas County, health officials have increased the number of testing days at their Clearwater location from two per week to three.
"I think it is largely a heterosexual concern," said Dr. Ronnie Massey, director of communicable disease services for the Pinellas County Health Department.
In Pasco County, increased public concern has left health workers swamped with phone calls and requests for testing. At the county clinic in New Port Richey, testing appointments jumped from about five a day to 25.
"We're glad to see that many people are seeking assistance, are getting tested, and are getting educated," said spokeswoman Joan Spainhower.
Copyright 1991/The Associated Press. Reproduced with permission. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the Permissions Desk, The Associated Press, 50 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10020.
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Copyright © 1991 - Associated Press. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the AP Permissions Desk.
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