Rising numbers of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and infectious syphilis cases have been reported recently in the northwest area of the province.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority has declared an HIV outbreak for North Battleford, affecting people who inject drugs and share needles, and use other injection equipment for drug use.
From January to the end of May 2019, 15 new HIV cases were reported for the North Battleford area. When comparing those numbers to the amount of cases between 2013 to 2018, an average of four cases were reported annually.
An outbreak for syphilis has been declared within the Battlefords and Lloydminster areas, too. The sexually transmitted infection can spread from person to person through direct contact with a syphilis sore.
42 cases of syphilis have been reported for the Battlefords, Lloydminster and surrounding areas between January 2019 to May 2019. Fewer than seven new cases of syphilis have been recorded annually.
“We want the public to be aware of the risks associated with these infections, and how they can be prevented and treated,” said Dr. Mandiangu Nsungu, Medical Health Officer (MHO) Area Lead North with the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
“HIV and syphilis are treatable diseases. It is important that individuals who are sexually active know their own status for HIV and syphilis. Knowing your status means that treatment can be provided and individuals can be helped to reduce the risk of spreading the illness.”
Residents may not notice any symptoms for either syphilis or HIV at first. The SHA explained that the majority of people who have contracted HIV will have no symptoms, and many won’t suffer symptoms from sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis.
Testing is free, confidential and treatment will be offered immediately. People can request testing to learn their HIV and sexual health status by visiting their physician or nurse practitioner, or by attending a walk-in or sexual health clinic.
SHA says outbreaks are declared when there is a higher number of cases than expected for a specific area or group of people during a particular time frame.
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