[Surveillance of the HIV-epidemic in Norway]

Surveillance of HIV infection and AIDS is still a cornerstone in the efforts to prevent spread of HIV in Norway. The surveillance system aims at measuring the incidence and prevalence of HIV infection in the country. We describe the development of the surveillance from 1983 until 1996 based on the National Notification System for Infectious Diseases. New cases of HIV infection are reported anonymously but cases of AIDS are reported with name. Key information on each case includes age, gender, residence and the most likely time, place and route of transmission. The notification system is supplemented by screening of pregnant women, military recruits and blood donors, and by surveys of the number of tests performed, and other information. The information is analysed regularly, interpreted and communicated to the health services and the public.