AIDS update.

Abstract

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a new and frightening epidemic. Epidemiology has clearly delineated the mechanisms of spread as sexual intercourse, transfer of blood, and vertical transfer from infected mother to newborn child. Although much remains to be answered about infection with the AIDS virus, present information will allow containment of its spread while methods of controlling the threat, such as development of vaccine and therapy, are vigorously pursued.