There are some similarities between contracting HIV and the taint; however, contracting HIV often involves consciously engaging in behavior that would lead to contracting the disease; compared to using saidin which was tainted at a point in time and then later removed. Additionally, HIV can be contracted by sharing needles; while there is no taint or madness transfer in using saidin; man vs man and man vs himself. It’s a little different.
In extension to GawynIsTheWorst’s entry, Mat’s trying to deal with Rand being a channeler is similar to some people dealing with someone else’s sexuality; however, Mat mentions that he keeps forgetting that Rand can channel. Additionally, does it take three women to replace Mat? Not sure. Take that Amazon.
