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. Manitoba now has the second-highest rate of new HIV cases in Canada, three times the national average. Persons who inject drugs (PWID) were the largest driver of HIV transmission among both males and females, with 64 and 81.2 per cent of cases.
From January 01, 2024, to November 29, the Manitoba HIV Program had 347 new referrals, which don’t necessarily represent new infections but individuals seeking services.
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. Through awareness and outreach, they can feel comfortable approaching that part of their health care.
“Early detection is key. If we can detect cases early on, we can get people access to treatment as soon as possible and that saves lives. Creating awareness is also about normalizing that STBBIs are common. Everyone from all walks of life, gets STBBIs throughout their life. It’s something we should destigmatize, to be open and talk about it, to be present and not be afraid to show we’re here, we care, and we’ll help you access testing and treatment.”
The provincial government has invested over $8 million in initiatives to increase access to care and promote awareness of HIV in Manitoba. For Haddad, these investments and commitment from the government to tackle the rising rates of STBBIs are fantastic to see. However, for him and others at Mount Carmel Clinic, it’s not simply about addressing rising rates but improving each individual’s quality of life.
“For that one person, this program could make all the difference. It’s a difference of a life where they feel happy, fulfilled, and comfortable in their own skin. When we look at why we do something, sure, numbers can support that, but the most important thing is how that initiative supports individuals.”
Mount Carmel Clinic, Sunshine House, and other community organizations were recently present at a wellness fair. It’s an opportunity to be visible in the community, offering testing and vaccines and a place to ask questions regarding health.
According to Helina Zegeye, the Gizhiwenimin Director at Sunshine House, these outreach events are key in building community trust, with many led by individuals with lived experiences. Sunshine House’s peer program empowers these individuals to create awareness and be directly involved in communities, understanding and learning what these communities and individuals need. Tommy and Marj are members of the peer program.
“I know people who are open about their [STBBI] status, and I know people who are so quiet and restrictive with it and guard it,” explains Tommy. “The best ways to break down those barriers is to talk about it, get it out there, and why not get tested.”
Although stigma often contributes to not seeking testing or treatment, Marj says cost is another significant barrier.
“Some people don’t want to get tested because of how their friends and family will treat them afterwards. A former barrier was the cost of the medication, but now the government is going to help with that, which is awesome news.”
HIV-AIDS medication pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis, and anti-retroviral therapy are now being provided through the government for free. A further barrier being removed is the requirement for health care providers to register to prescribe PrEP.
However, Marj says having a support system is the most critical aspect of helping someone with an STBBI.
“Having been someone who didn’t have a support system in the beginning, being able to be that person for someone who was newly diagnosed or someone who even just wants to get tested, it makes them feel better having someone who has experienced it than just having a doctor just throw information in your face.”
That is the power of the peer program, explains Zegeye, as it brings care into the community and away from a clinical setting where people may be intimidated or scared. They note that supporting peer programs is paramount to the continued success of community outreach.
“We are really fortunate to have folks with lived experiences who engage with our programming, similar to the work of our partners here. I think the labour of peers and folks with lived experiences provide the knowledge and expertise, and the ability to have those difficult conversations is something incredibly undervalued.”
Many who work through these peer programs are often on Employment and Income Assistance (EIA) or work with many other peer programs to earn income.
“One of the things I would like to see long-term is the recognition of these individuals with lived experiences and how impactful that is.”
Zegeye adds that through further outreach and empathic conversations, people are empowered. This leads to them getting tested and receiving necessary care, which helps reduce infection rates.
– Ryan Funk, U Multicultural
