As gonorrhea and syphilis outbreaks continue to affect the region, Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health wants as many people to get tested as possible.
While 84 cases of gonorrhea and 16 cases of syphilis were reported last year, the health unit believes the real number of cases could be much higher. They say that because testing has been limited due to the pandemic, people may be carrying STIs and not know it. Many STI’s have no symptoms but can create long-term health issues.
They are urging all people who are not using a condom during sex to get tested as soon as they can. People are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider to get screened. The health unit is offering a screening clinic at their Belleville offices on April 4th, 11th and 25th from noon until 3:30 PM.