Sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs) are infections that are acquired sexually or blood-borne.

Here are a few examples:

 

• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

• Hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV)

• Chlamydia

• Gonorrhoea

• Syphilis

• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

• Lymphogranuloma venereum

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What services does the STBBI program offer?

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The STBBI program raises awareness and supports Indigenous people living with HIV, hepatitis and other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections, as well as those at risk of contracting these infections. It also offers self-tests for HIV and hepatitis C (HCV).

Through an agreement with a laboratory, we offer blood and urine tests, including STBBI testing. We are also distributing naloxone and Narcan kits to the community.

CSAT is now a recognized distribution centre for safe inhalation and injection materials (SAICs).

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What does the STBBI Outreach Coordinator do?

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The STBBI Outreach Coordinator educates the community on the prevention, transmission and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Through this program, we can:

 

• Offer rapid HIV testing, with or without accompaniment.

• Refer people to a nurse or doctor at our clinic, or to other health care professionals as needed.

• Promote health services in a culturally safe environment.

• Establish and maintain relationships with Indigenous communities to better understand their health needs.

• Distribute harm reduction materials to substance users, safely and anonymously.

• Offer cultural safety training to organizations wishing to better support Indigenous people or adapt their services to their realities.

 

The coordinator is also involved in coordinating a research project at the McGill University Health Centre to provide rapid hepatitis C testing to Indigenous communities. This project facilitates access to point-of-care for confirmatory testing and treatment, if needed.