When AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) was first reported in the West, the Chinese rejoiced at their physical distance from the incurable, fatal disease. This optimism did not last long. The first AIDS case in China was reported in 1985. By the end of September 1999, HIV-positive cases have been reported in every one of the thirty-one provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities in China. The total number has reached 15,088. Most HIV-infected persons live in the countryside. Among the reported cases, 477 have developed full-blown AIDS and 240 have already died. …
