Over the past few years, Manitoba has seen its rates of HIV and sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBI) continue to rise.
The province recently released its surveillance data for 2023, which saw 280 new HIV cases reported in Manitoba, a 40.7 per cent increase from the 199 cases in 2022. The infection rate has tripled since 2019, with marginalized communities being the most affected. From January 01, 2024, to November 29, the Manitoba HIV Program had 347 new referrals, which represents individuals seeking services, not necessarily new infections.
Organizations like the community-centred Mount Carmel Clinic and drop-in and resource centre Sunshine House work directly with individuals and communities to provide care and support. Adam Haddad, program manager for primary health at Mount Carmel Clinic, emphasizes that it isn’t an individual’s fault, and people from all walks of life get STBBIs throughout their lives.
