Adoption of protective behaviors among persons with recent HIV infection and diagnosis--Alabama, New Jersey, and Tennessee, 1997-1998

A comprehensive human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention strategy includes knowledge of HIV status, counseling to reduce high-risk behavior, and referral for appropriate care (1). After diagnosis, a substantial percentage of HIV-infected persons reduce their high-risk sexual behaviors (2-4). This report presents data characterizing the sexual practices of persons with newly diagnosed HIV infection who have evidence of recently acquired infection. Characterizing these persons may assist in the development of risk-reduction efforts for HIV-infected populations to prevent further HIV transmission.