No warning shots: The risks and realities of HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C in California prisons and other correctional settings

Diseases such as HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C have a huge impact on incarcerated populations in the U.S., with rates of infection among prisoners consistently higher than the general U.S. population. Many of the same factors that place people at risk for incarceration (such as drug use) also place them at risk for HIV or Hepatitis C infection. Risk factors are increased for prisoners- who often do not have access to prevention tools (such as condoms, clean needles, or proper sterilization for tattoo equipment)- this despite the fact that we know that sex and drug use sometimes happens in prisons and jails, and tattooing is common.

This brief HIV prevention video for prisoners can be shown in correctional facilities throughout the state of California. The video provides basic facts and information about HIV/AIDS in correctional settings, and the realities facing our communities both inside and outside, including statistics and interviews with medical professionals.

The video also interviews participants from the Center for Health Justice's Inmate Peer Education Program about risk factors inside prisons and how to reduce ones chance of becoming infected (or spreading the disease to others). The focus is on promoting the adoption of healthier behaviors.