j----_. - New York Civil Liberties Union

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78. What safety protocols have been developed for occupational groups? (~")
All occupational groups that may come into direct contact with blood or ,/
semen in the course of their work are advised to take special precautions to
guard against AIDS, Hepatitis 8 and other infectious agents. These include:
- wash hands following any contact with patient secretions;
- take special care in handling and disposing of used needles;
- guard against needle sticks, cuts and other injuries;
- notify supervisors of any direct exposure to blood, semen or other
body fluids;
- wear protective clothing (gloves, gowns, and/or goggle~) if direct
exposure to blood or body fluids is likely.
79. How is the risk of spreading AIDS through blood transfusions being
min1mized?
All blood donated in the U.S. has been tested for antibodies to the HIV
virus since May 15, 1985. Blood that tests positive is removed from the
transfusion pool. The process involves use of an ELISA (enzyme-linked
immunosorbent assay) screening test, with confirmation of positive results
through a more specific antibody test known as the Western Blot.
80. Haw effective is the new blood screening test?
All studies indicate that the HIVantibody test is highly effective in
eliminating blood from the dorior pool that may be infected with HIV. In fact,
the test errs on the side (.'f "false-positive" readings, since only about 10
percent of blood that tests positive on th& initial ELISA test is confirmed
positive through a more specific Western Blot test .. \11 blood that tests
positive' by the initial screening te=t is removed from the transfusion pool.
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81. Are spenlbanks and organ banks screening for AIDS?
The Centers for Disease Control has recolTl11endedthat sperm and organ
banks screen all donations for antibodies to HIV virus.
82. Is New York State offering HIVantibody testing?
Yes. A number of regional HIVantibody test sites have been established
by the State Health Department to provide test\ng and counseling for persons
who wish to know 1f they have been exposed to the virus. Testing is free of
charge at these sites, and anonymity1s maintained through ~se of a code
system. Persons seeking the HIVantibody test need not give a name, address
or any other potentially identifying information. Private physicians also can
arrange for their patients to obtain testing. For information on HIV testing
call the statewi •• toll-free hotline (1-800-541-AIDS) or theclosést HIV test
s1te listed on th, back cover of this booklet.
83. Why dOfsn't Hew York State mandate testing of all persons for
antibodies to HIV? I
The State does not sapport mandated HIVantibody testing of any groups
or individuals since thi information is not useful in developing public health
policies. but could be used tod1scriminate against individuals or groups.
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