ABC NEWS — Apr 24 — Social networking sites connect friends, serve special interest groups and make it easier than ever before to stay in touch. But when the Internet is used for anonymous and unprotected sex — that touch can turn toxic. Some fear that online chat rooms and dating sites are becoming today's virtual bathhouses, where HIV/AIDS first percolated among gay men in the 1980s. More new infections occur among young people ages 13 to 29 than any other age group — precisely the demographic that uses the Internet for social networking. Public health professionals are turning to social networks as a tool to combat the high numbers of HIV/AIDS infection. Manhunt was the first dating site to address sexual health in 2002 with partner notification, outreach and research services on its Manhunt Cares page. Its directory lists hundreds of health clinics around the world where men can get face-to-face help. FULL ARTICLE @ ABC NEWS
