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German pop star Nadja Benaissa of No Angels arrested for infecting partner with HIV
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Nadja Benaissa, a singer with the popular German group No Angels, was arrested this week for allegedly infecting a partner with HIV. The prosecutor claims she had unprotected sex with three different men between 2004 and 2006 and failed to disclose she was HIV positive. One man has since tested positive. Whether or not she actually infected this man will eventually be proven with genetic tests on the virus.
This case is sad on so many levels.
It is unknown whether Benaissa’s nine-year-old daughter knew her mother was HIV positive - if not this is about the worst way to find out. And Benaissa could face 10 years in jail if convicted.
To have unprotected sex knowing you are HIV positive is criminal. This is the latest in a series of publicized cases in several countries where people have been arrested for knowingly exposing their sex partners to HIV. Most people with HIV are very responsible about their diagnosis, so what motivates this small percentage to be so careless and reckless? Is it lack of understanding about their diagnosis, denial, anger, ignorance, or indifference?
Finally, this case emphasizes the point that protecting yourself against HIV is your responsibility, for both men and women. HIV is on the rise fueled by complacency about safe sex practices. When I heard about this case I wondered why three men would be willing to have unprotected sex with Benaissa when almost 1/3 of women with HIV do not know they are infected? Assume every partner is HIV positive until you have proof. Ask to see the printed test result.
Get yourself tested for HIV. If you do not have insurance or prefer not to see your primary care provider you can get tested at the San Francisco City Clinic (415-487-5500) or find another local clinic at www.hivtest.org.
You can’t tell if someone is HIV positive by looking at them. Don’t learn that lesson the hard way.
For more info: http://www.cdc.gov/STD/
Remember, information in this column does not constitute individual medical advice.
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