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. 1986 Nov 22;2(8517):1208-9.
doi: 10.1016/s0140-6736(86)92208-7.

Would screening prevent the international spread of AIDS?

A J Zuckerman

Would screening prevent the international spread of AIDS?

A J Zuckerman. Lancet. .

Abstract

KIE: A policy of screening travelers, foreign students, and immigrants for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is being considered by several countries. The author considers whether such policies would be feasible and effective in controlling the international spread of AIDS. Even if such screening were logistically and politically feasible, he contends, the number of infected foreigners excluded would be insignificant compared to the total in numbers of already infected persons in many countries, and traveling citizens of the home country could bring back infection. Compulsory screening of whole populations is economically and ethically unworkable, impractical, and undesirable. Moreover, requiring a medical certificate for travelers is not in accord with the International Health Regulations of 1969. Zuckerman concludes that education and epidemiological surveillance promise to be more acceptable and successful in controlling the spread of AIDS.

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