it is called SIV (Simian Immunodeficency Virus). Some versions of SIV are only 40% similar in genetic structure to the chief AIDS causing virus HIV-1, but other versions of SIV monkey virus are virtually indistinguishable from some human variants of HIV-2, the second virus that causes AIDS in humans and mainly afflicts western Africa. Interestingly enough, no detail is known about which species of monkey kidney were used as medium to develop the polio vaccine. The majority of the researchers involved in the Koprowski Congo Project are no dead. The few that are still alive cannot recall what kind of monkey kidney were used in between 1957 to 1960. Dr. Koprowski, who still works at the Wistar Institute at Philadelphia, claims he is not sure either, and cannot produce a single document describing which species was used to make his vaccine. In 1991, researcher Robert C. Bohannon requested samples of Koprowski's, Salk's and Sabin's seed stock (frozen cultures) to check for contaminating monkey viruses. Salk and Sabin both complied with this request, however, Koprowski never responded. An investigation by the Food and Drug Administration has netted similar results. Scientists have raised the suspicion that there is a connection between the development of the polio vaccine using monkey kidneys as a medium and present-day HIV. Is there enough insinuating information to assess the origin of this disease? Should Koprowsky be held responsible for the origin of AIDS or, at least, as an accessory to its origin? It is difficult to render such judgment due to the complex circumstances, and the lack of information and medical expertise available. However, it is certain that a more detailed investigation is warranted. The possibility that Koprowski used SIV-infected cultures cannot be overlooked. Koprowskis desire to secure a place in the Medicine Hall of Fame is acknowledged in the medical community, and it is evident that he accelerated the fine tuni...
