Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) are life-changing. Approximately 39 million people have died worldwide from HIV/AIDS since it was identified in the early 1980s. The virus itself can exist within the body for a long time with little or no symptoms. As it progresses, it attacks the immune system, making a person more susceptible to other infections like tuberculosis or pneumonia. Fortunately now there are many drugs available to treat people infected with HIV so that not everybody who has HIV necessarily also develops AIDS right away. However, there is to date still no cure or effective vaccine against the virus.
Currently the government estimates the number of Americans living with HIV at more than 1.2 million. This means that some high-risk populations such as the urban areas of New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles have an infection rate as high as one in every 25 workers, possibly higher. Adults between the ages of 25 and 44 are most likely to be infected in the future. One out of every eight people that has an HIV infection is not even aware of their condition.
Complications for Employees With HIV/AIDS
Many prejudices exist regarding HIV/AIDS, and some employers do their best to combat misconceptions about HIV positive workers by instituting anti-discrimination policies and educating their workforce about HIV/AIDS. For those who do not find themselves in such a fortunate situation, they should know that many workers are covered by the ADA. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) was enacted to protect the rights of workers with disabilities, and HIV/AIDS is included in this legislation. If your place of work employs 15 or more people, then they are required to comply with ADA regulations which make it illegal for them to discriminate against you because of HIV/AIDS. Should your condition make it hard to continue in the position you currently hold in the company, an employer covered by the ADA must move you to a less strenuous position so that you can continue working. They can also make other reasonable accommodations for your condition such as flexible work hours or extended leave time. The ADA applies to all aspects of employment including hiring, firing, compensation, and promotions. Everyone must be treated fairly regardless of whether or not they have a disability, physical or medical.
Cherry Hill Employment Lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. Defend Victims of Discrimination
The ADA exists to protect the rights of workers with disabilities. If you have HIV or AIDS and have experienced discrimination at your job you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced and caring Cherry Hill employment lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. will provide exceptional representation to ensure you the best results possible. Call us right away at 856-985-9800 for a free consultation about your case. You can also contact us online. Our offices are located in Red Bank and Marlton, New Jersey, and serve clients throughout the state.