Abstract
M.A.
AIDS, the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, has become a serious public health concern in most cities in countries worldwide. Since the discovery of AIDS there have been impressive advances in the understanding of the AIDS virus, its routes of transmission and its methods of prevention. But even these hard-won-discoveries have not yet led to a drug that
can cure this deadly disease or to a vaccine that can prevent it. In the light of this it would
appear that a different approach to the management of AIDS is currently of utmost necessity.
AIDS can be prevented by empowering individuals with the knowledge of AIDS transmission
and prevention, thereby eliminating their ignorance and increasing their understanding,
empathy and compassion for those currently involved in dealing with this struggle.
The implications of AIDS and the HI-virus (human immunodeficiency virus) range far beyond
the AIDS/HIV patients themselves. The affects of HIV and AIDS are felt by family members,
partners and friends whose relationships are placed under immense strain, co-workers who are
confronted with their own fear and compassion and by those at high risk for the disorder who
are continually faced with ridicule and discrimination.
This study focused specifically on the workforce of South Africa whose economic productivity
is essential for South Africa's continual development and existence. In the absence of a fully
developed and integrated social infrastructure, South Africa is reliant on its workforce for its
monetary contribution in support of the unemployed, underprivileged, disabled and desolate of
this country. The aim of this study was to obtain a better level of understanding of the
workforce's knowledge regarding HIV and AIDS, to become aware of misunderstandings and
myths which could hamper prevention and to review current methods of public education in
order to enhance future methods of knowledge empowerment. A healthy workforce can
constitute a strong support network, and thereby not place further strain on an already
overwhelmed economy and government.