All people who have had or had unprotected sex are encouraged to get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – even if they have no symptoms. While individuals are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider for STD testing in April, Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) will also offer a temporary STD screening program. This program provides a quick screening option for anyone who has sex without a condom and has no STD symptoms. This temporary service will help boost access to gonorrhea and chlamydia testing as HPEPH gradually resumes regular programs and services. Hastings and Prince Edward County are still plagued by gonorrhea and syphilis *, with 84 cases of gonorrhea and 16 cases of infectious syphilis reported in 2021. It is suspected that case rates may be much higher as access to examinations is restricted. . People of all genders and sexual orientations come out positive. While STDs did not disappear during the pandemic, access to testing and treatment decreased. As a result, people can carry undiagnosed STDs and transmit them without knowing it. By offering drops for screening, HPEPH hopes to help locals meet their sexual health needs. Since many STDs have no symptoms, the only way to find out if you are infected is to get tested. Different types of sex can transmit sexually transmitted diseases if no condom is used, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. Even without symptoms, undiagnosed / untreated sexually transmitted diseases can lead to long-term health consequences. STD screening provides a quick and easy opportunity for individuals to know if they have been infected with STDs without the need for a full evaluation. The screening test will check for chlamydia and gonorrhea with a quick urine sample or self-administered throat and / or rectal cotton (depending on the type of activity). Customers will only need to provide their name, health card and preferred form of communication (text, email or phone number). People who do not have a health card can be screened. “People will not always know if they have been exposed to STDs or if they are positive, they may not know how to communicate with their partners,” says Stephanie McFaul, Clinical Services Program Manager at HPEPH. “By offering STI-style control, we hope to help locals control their condition – as easily and comfortably as possible.” STI Screening Clinics will be held at the Belleville HPEPH office, 179 North Park Street, Monday, April 4, 11 and 25 from 12 to 3:30 p.m. No appointment required. While the test itself will only take a few minutes, the waiting time will vary depending on the volume of customers. Customers are reminded that mask use is required in all public health clinics. Anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should delay their visit until they feel better and complete the isolation requirements. While STD screening is ideal for asymptomatic people, those with symptoms should visit a healthcare provider for a full evaluation and diagnosis. If you do not have a care provider, visit a clinic or Emergency Department. For more information on STDs or screening clinics, visit our website or call the HPEPH Sexual Health Team at 613-966-5500, extension 243.
- Please note that screening for syphilis will not be completed with rapid screening, as this requires a blood test. People who want a blood test should contact their healthcare provider, go for a walk to the clinic or contact HPEPH at the number above for options.