CONFIDENTIAL
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機密
22. i
Without a vaccine or an effective antiviral agent to
combat AIDS, public education against high risk sexual
behaviour and drug abuse must be the mainstay of a policy for
containing the spread of infection (18). Fear of catching
AIDS is probably more effective than the criminal law in
detering people from indulging in high risk sexual activity.
In Hong Kong the Medical and Health Department has introduced
a publicity programme to meet the different needs of the
general population, the high risk groups and adolescents.
Special publicity efforts have been directed towards
modification of sexual behaviour. For example, the reduction
in the number of sexual partners, the avoidance of promiscuity
and the practice of safer sex.
23.
Screening and counselling are also important; it is
necessary to protect the welfare of those who might become
infected and to help them avoid infecting others. In November
1985 a counselling clinic was established to provide advice
for people who fear they might have contracted the disease.
The clinic also provides advice for those who have already
been infected in order that precautionary measures may be
taken to limit the spread of AIDS. Up to January 1988 1,917
homosexuals and bisexuals had approached the AIDS Counselling
Clinic. But, given that there could be as many as 250,000
homosexuals in Hong Kong, wider screening is necessary.
cannot be said with certainty that the existing laws on
homosexual behaviour discourage homosexuals from coming
forward for counselling and screening.
seem reasonable
It
However, it would
CONFIDENTIAL****