HIV/AIDS and Florida Prevention Programs

Course overview

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV can significantly depress immune system function, leading progressively to AIDS. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has reduced the morbidity and mortality associated with HIV-1 infection and AIDS, enabling HIV-infected individuals to live longer and have an improved quality of life. Advancements in ART have allowed many patients with HIV to achieve viral suppression. Nevertheless, HIV and AIDS are still serious health problems requiring federal and state resources. Florida continues to be disproportionately impacted by HIV/AIDS. The Omnibus AIDS Act, Florida, as amended, guides and mandates Florida health care clinicians in the areas of screening, diagnosing, and reporting HIV/AIDS under A Brief Legal Guide For Health Care Professionals. Florida law reflects existing recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other national organizations concerned with HIV testing and methods to avoid disease transmission through voluntary testing.