Logo: Huron Perth Public Health
Huron Perth Public Health is not expecting any changes to the rates of sexually transmitted infections (STI) due to COVID-19.
Public Health Nurse Kate Underwood tells Country 104.9 News Huron and Perth have seen year-over-year increases in STIs, and the trend is expected to continue when 2020 numbers are released.
“We anticipate our 2020 trend is going to continue to show that increase in numbers.”
Since March, the Ontario government has mandated smaller gatherings, and discouraged close contact with individuals outside of a resident’s own home.
According to Underwood, the numbers available to health staff tell another story.
“I don’t think we can really say it [COVID-19] is a factor just because we know those trends have been increasing for the last number of years.”
“We really do anticipate that will continue, based on what we’ve seen with our previous trends.”
Underwood says chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis are the most reported STIs in Huron and Perth counties.
Sexual health and wellness services have been deemed essential by the province, and Underwood says numerous avenues to receive sexual health care are available through Huron Perth Public Health’s various locations.