Re: HIV=/=AIDS video
Thu, 6 Mar 1997 22:32:31 -0500 (EST)

In a message dated 97-03-05 13:26:52 EST, you write:

<< The latency period seems to differ with different sub-types of the virus,
which there are at least six. >>

This seems likely. There are many so called "slow viruses" with long latency
periods not just HIV-1. The _Manual of Clinical Microbiology_ (MCM) lists
several p.189, 813, 1027-1032 5th edition 1991; Kuru, Scrapie; B. Sigurfsson
long incubation period agents (1954). Other long latency microorganisms are
_Coccidioides immitis_, _Aspergillus_, TB and MAC. So HIV-1 is not so
strange as far as latency period. I would even call it uninteresting from
that aspect. My theory is that we will find many more long latency viruses.
In fact, I am surprised we have not found MORE such as a human cancer virus
similar to Roux Sarcoma cancer virus (also a retrovirus like HIV-1).

AIDS-like disease in African monkeys.

though Koch's postulates have been satisfied by retrospective investigations
of accidental infections with HIV such as the dental cases and hemophilia
far convinced that Koch's postulated are satisfied.

It would be interesting to determine if these seemingly minor genetic
differences change latency period prior to AIDS -like symptoms.


Davin C. Enigl, (Sole Proprietorship) MEAS

Microbiology Consulting, Hazard Analysis and
Critical Control Points (HACCP), CGMP, and Validations
for the Food, Cosmetic, Nutritional Supplement, and Pharmaceutical Industry

March 6, 1997
6:52 am