The sudden death from AIDS of an orthopaedic surgeon in Israel last week has triggered arguments over whether all health workers should undergo an HIV test. The Israel Medical Association, which represents 12 000 Israeli doctors, opposes the suggestion for “professional” reasons, and the health ministry insists its money is better spent on blood testing and educational campaigns.

Dr Gabi Ben-Meir of Kaplan Hospital in Rehovot was the first doctor known to die of AIDS in Israel. The 42 year old man took a voluntary HIV test earlier this year; the result was negative. …