HIV/AIDS in the Information Society

Abstract

The carrier communities of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and its associated syndrome, AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), are particularly active on the web. The activity of these communities has not only operated as crucial self-support but also as support for immunologists. After expounding on some elements of the relationship of HIV/AIDS communities and the Internet in recent years, this case study observes how Internet use contributes to improving carrier living standards. In particular, it considers: a) the influence of Internet use on management that the antibody positive person makes of secondary effects caused by antiretroviral treatment and b) the influence of the aforesaid use on the doctor-patient relationship, particularly on the process of therapeutic co-decision-making.