In one case, a parent was informed that if her daughter attended the school, the catering staff would have to be told the girl had HIV. In another, a child found out that they had HIV when their teacher disclosed the fact in class. In many cases, the distress caused has meant parents have had to move their child to new schools, and have been advised by health workers not to tell the school about their child's status for fear of discrimination.
All these cases are a consequence of the school community not understanding the facts about HIV. Having a child living with HIV in school poses no risk to staff or pupils. HIV is not passed on by spitting, biting, small cuts or grazes, sharing utensils or toilet seats. There has never been a known case of HIV transmission in school. Virtually all HIV-positive children are completely healthy for the majority of their school career. They have regular clinical check-ups and those that need medication may take it at home once or twice daily.
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