HIV-AIDS: safety and testing in overseas countries
What is AIDS?
AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is a serious disease that was first diagnosed in 1981. This syndrome is the late stage of infection from the human immunodeficiency virus (known as HIV) and results in progressive damage to the immune system and life-threatening infectious and non-infectious complications.
AIDS and HIV infection occur worldwide but many countries do not have comprehensive screening facilities for the detection of HIV/AIDS, so travellers should know the risk of infection from blood, blood products and vaccinations.
Safety in Westernised countries
In countries such as Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, Japan and most western European countries, the risk of HIV/AIDS infection through blood transfusions has been virtually eliminated through specialised testing of all blood donated.
Also in these countries, immunoglobulin preparations (such as the vaccinations used to prevent hepatitis A and B) undergo a process that is known to inactivate HIV antibodies and this minimises the risks of transmission via these types of vaccinations.
Safety in developing countries
Unfortunately, in many less-developed countries there may be no formal programme for testing blood or blood products or immunoglobulin preparations for the HIV antibody.
In these countries, the use of blood for transfusions should be avoided if possible. However, if a transfusion is necessary, the blood should be tested for HIV antibodies by a reputable laboratory using established testing procedures. You should speak to your doctor before travelling to discuss what you might need to do in situations such as these.
Needle safety
Needles that are used to draw blood or administer injections should be sterile. The most preferable are the single-use only disposable type which are prepacked in a sealed container.
Insulin-dependent diabetic people, haemophiliacs and other people who need routine or frequent injections should always carry their own sufficient supply of syringes, needles and disinfectant swabs when travelling overseas to avoid having to use others that may not be sterile.
Screening for incoming travellers
When travelling overseas, you should be aware that some countries require screening of incoming travellers (particularly those who are staying for some time such as for work or study) for HIV/AIDS infection.
Some countries may also deny entry to persons with AIDS or those who test positive to HIV. If you are intending to visit a country for any length of time, you should check the requirements of the particular country. This information can generally be obtained from consulate or embassy officials of the particular country or you can contact the Australian Foreign Affairs department.
Last Reviewed: 14 October 2004
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