In June of 1981, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that several otherwise healthy young men were dying of diseases usually seen only in elderly or immune-depressed patients. Soon the CDC realized they were dealing with what become known as HIV, which is the virus that produces AIDS by effectively impairing the human immune system. This compelling website was created as part of the "Science in American Life" initiative at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. Through oral histories, interviews, primary documents, and other materials, the site tells the story of the cultural, social, and public health implications of HIV/AIDS. The materials are divided into ten different areas, including "Scientific Mystery", "HIV and AIDS 1981-1997", and "AIDS Quilt". Visitors can explore each area, and they should also look over their blog. In the blog, they will find posts such as "Teaching AIDS awareness through trading cards" and "A brief history of AZT". Finally, visitors shouldn't miss the "Links" area, which includes links to original reports from the CDC on HIV/AIDS from the early 1980s and more.
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