The zero factor.

A four part series examining the history of AIDS in the developed world and Africa, with particular reference to its effect on homosexual life in the U.S. and Britain. It traces the spread of the disease to heterosexuals, the role of blood transfusions and the dispute between the U.S.A. and France over the ownership of the HIV test. The action of gay pressure groups against pharmaceutical companies is given in detailed coverage. "Part 1: The Zero Factor"Witnesses describe the first manifestation of AIDS in the U.S. in 1979; the first European case (1981); the initial fear and reluctance of hospital staff over contact with the first HIV victims; contact tracing; public health strategy; connections established between the illness and illicit drug use and blood transfusion.