The provision of services to persons with mental retardation and subsequent infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

We present the first reported cases of individuals with mental retardation who have subsequently become infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The implications of this finding for agencies which provide services to persons with mental retardation are described. Where conflicts arise, the authors propose that ethical review committees provide consultation to service agencies who must ultimately determine how they will provide for the needs of their clients.