Initial studies show that they also work in prisons. Much more work needs to be done to find effective means to reduce transmission of HIV by sex and drugs in prisons. But the failure to provide the basic measures, such as information, education and the means of prevention available on the outside, violate prisoners' rights to health, security of person and equality before the law. It could also be said to constitute cruel and inhuman treatment. Though sex and drug-use in prison may be bad, spreading HIV is worse.
Prisoners are the essential captive audience.
With such an audience, effective HIV prevention and care programmes can be implemented. But there needs to be the political will, the knowledge, and the resources to devote to these issues. Prisoners and prison staff should benefit from HIV prevention information and education, care and support, and confidentiality, at the same level as provided in the community. Policies should be based on the real risk factors actually occurring in prisons. The special needs of women, juvenile and foreign prisoners should be addressed.