A test for HIV antibody is considered positive when a sequence of tests (including enzyme immunoassay and a more specific assay such as the Western blot) are consistently reactive. HIV testing and pre- and posttest counseling are suggested for persons with sexually transmitted diseases, intravenous drug abusers, and persons who consider themselves at risk. Women of childbearing age with identifiable risk for HIV should be tested and counseled, and persons planning marriage should be given information about HIV and AIDS and the availability of counseling and testing. Other groups for whom testing or counseling may be appropriate include persons in hospitals or undergoing medical evaluation, inmates, and prostitutes. Partners of seropositive individuals should be notified via confidential procedures. Confidentiality and antidiscrimination are important to the success of such public health programs. 9 references.