The primary goal of this handbook is to provide basic information about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It incorporates information on different facets of the HIV pandemic drawn from various sources. Section one addresses facts about the transmission of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, and how the virus is spread. The second section provides a description of the HIV antibody testing process. Section three outlines proper methods for handling body fluids when someone becomes injured or ill during the school day. Section four offers concrete suggestions on how to help infected people. The final section discusses the processes of grief and mourning that people may experience at the death of a loved one. Resources provided include national hotlines, state HIV education contacts, national HIV education programs, publications, online resources, videotapes, and special events. (ND)