Sexually Transmitted and Blood Borne Infections

People come into contact with bacteria and viruses at all stages of life. Preventing infections and reducing harm is of primary importance.

Some sexually transmitted and blood borne infections can cause short term illness, while others can cause lifelong illness requiring treatment. Some can be prevented by immunization (like the human papillomavirus and hepatitis B), others cannot (like hepatitis C or syphilis). British Columbia has several strategies to prevent these infections with particular focus on a combination of universal and targeted approaches.