Sexually transmitted and blood borne infections

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection that can be transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact (exchange of semen, vaginal fluids, blood or other body fluids).

A blood borne infection is transmitted through contact with infected blood.

 

To reduce the risks of contracting sexually transmitted and blood borne infections, it is advisable to:

  • Limit your number of sexual and drug use partners;
  • Know your sexual or drug use partners’ medical history (infections or communicable diseases);
  • Inform your sexual partners if you have a sexually transmitted or blood borne infection and make sure they are being tested and treated;
  • Have safe sex;
  • Never share drug use equipment with other partners;
  • Make sure that you have tattoo and body piercing done with sterile equipment;
  • Have regular medical check-ups;
  • Talk to a health care provider about the vaccines available to protect you against certain diseases (hepatitis and human papillomavirus);
  • Contact AIDS New Brunswick for information, support, and a disposable needle exchange program.

 

Anyone wishing to talk to a health care professional about sexually transmitted and blood borne infections (STBBI) can call:

 

WARNING Hepatitis B is in the region

 

For more information