[AIDS: epidemiology and prevention for clinical practice].

From the institution of an European statistic for the incidence of Aids onwards Switzerland has had the highest per capita rate. The marked increase of Aids victims in drug-addicts over the past years is also well established. An improved surveillance of HIV spread is mandatory for actual assessment of the epidemiologic situation. The long lag between HIV-infection and the manifestation of Aids impede counter measures. Prevention has thus to relay on three levels simultaneously: The 'Stop-Aids' crusade for the entire population, target group oriented activities and individual counseling. For the latter individual level physicians play the decisive role. The minimal goal for the physician should aim at the immediate prevention of HIV-infection in any of his patients. Good approaches to this directive are available.