Acquired immune deficiency syndrome: implications for optometry and the public health

Recognized in 1981, acquired immune deficiency syndrome or AIDS has become a worldwide epidemic. HIV virus is believed to be the causative agent and acts primarily upon T-helper lymphocytes and nerve tissue, damaging the body's immune system. Ocular and systemic opportunistic infections result. Transmission is primarily by intimate contact with infected blood or semen. The virus has been found in eye tissues and raises questions about safety during eye care delivery, as well as optometry's role as a primary eye care profession.