Abstract
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a disease of the immune system which has begun to reach epidemic proportions in certain segments of the American population. Though the causative factor is as yet unknown, certain epidemiologic variables, such as prevalence in homosexuals, intravenous drug abusers, and hemophiliacs, leads researchers to believe that its pathway of transmission is similar to that of Hepatitis B. Health care workers who must deal intimately with the blood and secretions of patients with AIDS are at risk for being exposed to the pathogen which causes the disease. The Center for Disease Control recommendations are presented as a framework for development of precautions for health care workers in order to prevent exposure to the disease.