Huston-Tillotson University chooses to respond to the threat of HIV infection. The College provides equal access to all educational programs to every student without regard to physical disability, which includes HIV infection. Huston-Tillotson University conforms to all federal, state and local laws and policies.

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome is a condition that results from infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. And may be contracted in a variety of ways. This virus is transmitted by direct exposure to certain body fluids. Blood and semen are two major body fluids that are known to carry HIV virus.

The United States Public Health Service states,” There is no risk created in living in the same dwelling with an infected person, eating food handled by and infected person, being coughed upon or sneezed upon by an infected person, swimming in a pool with or caring for an infected person.”

The following policies are based on this information and a deep concern for an individual so infected. These policies and an intense educational program are designed to slow the spread of this disease process.

Responsibility

Aids will be reviewed yearly to meet the standing policies for AIDS, to recommend policy changes, review individuals’ for a change in needs on campus, and develop educational programs.

Confidentiality

HIV positive cases are not reportable to the health department. AIDS is reportable to the public health department and may be reported to a spouse by a physician, but is not to be reported to any other individuals or organization. A person may disclose his/her health status and other pertinent information to staff personnel, but sign a disclosure statement that such information was willingly disclosed. Information regarding the individual is confidential. The laws in this are constantly changing. New regulations will become a part if this policy as enacted.

Health Services

The Director of Health Services will serve as a liaison between the HIV positive person and other students, physician, parents, and administration.  Health Services will use Universal Precautionary measures whenever the care provider may be in contact with blood or other body fluids.