[HIV infection caused by nursing care? HIV infection in the mother of a son with AIDS].
The case of a 78-year-old woman with a 2-year history of chronic persistent oral candidiasis, in whom an HIV infection (stage III, Frankfurt Classification according to Brodt, stage 6 Walter Reed Staging Classification, stage IV WHO Classification, manifest AIDS according to the new 1988 Classification) was diagnosed, is reported. The 44-year-old son (since deceased) of the patient was known to have had the acquired immune deficiency syndrome since December, 1986. Transmission of HIV from son to mother seems likely.
Little is known about the health and well-being of people who live on the streets although their lifestyle involves health risks. This study used qualitative and quantitative methods to explore the health status and health service needs of homeless people in several South African cities and towns. It was found in some cases that their own or family members' ill-health had contributed to their homelessness. Illnesses associated with poor living conditions or lifestyles were more common in the homeless than in the general population in certain age and sex categories. Access to healthcare was generally good in urban centres and most respondents were satisfied, although some reported discriminatory treatment. The risk profile of the homeless shows that systematic health promotion is required and that some health service providers need to be made more aware of the health needs of the homeless.