Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Education in Schools

Abstract

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) epidemic has grown during the past 15 years. Education remains a critical component of our efforts to prevent HIV infection/AIDS in school children and young adults. To accomplish this goal, school personnel should receive updated information about HIV infection/AIDS so that accurate teaching on this topic can be included in the K–12 health education curriculum. Informed pediatricians and nurses can serve as important resources for school health services and administration to provide current information for the curriculum. Each community should have a school health advisory committee that enlists community support and provides input to health education programs in schools.