Human Immunodeficiency Virus Partner Notification in a Low Incidence Urban Community

Abstract

Notification of the partners of a person newly diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is legally mandated in Missouri. In a four-year period, the Kansas City Health Department tested for HIV antibodies in 61,464 of 61,700 (99.6%) eligible persons using the sexually transmitted disease clinic. A total of 366 newly diagnosed HIV cases were identified of whom 291 named 662 sex or needle-sharing partners. Only 447 partners could be located, counseled and/or tested. Of these partners, 165 were HIV infected, but only 33 represented newly diagnosed cases. HIV partner notification can be successfully conducted in an urban community.