PEI Sees Alarming Rise in STIs

Prince Edward Island is currently facing an escalating public health concern with rising rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and infectious syphilis. As of 2025, the average rate of chlamydia stood at approximately 239 cases per 100,000 people, marking a significant increase over the preceding five years. This infection is most prevalent among individuals aged 19 to 24.

Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Heather Morrison has noted that asymptomatic cases of chlamydia can lead to serious complications like infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease if left untreated. Gonorrhea rates have climbed substantially, and infectious syphilis cases have doubled recently. While hepatitis C has seen a decline, hepatitis B and HIV rates have remained stable. These trends are a cause for concern, even though PEI's STI rates are still below the national average.

To combat the spread, PEI offers a range of testing services, including SHORS clinics, primary care physicians, emergency departments for symptomatic individuals, and readily available self-test kits distributed by PEERS Alliance. Contact tracing by Public Health Nursing is a crucial part of the province's strategy to prevent further transmission, ensuring that identified contacts are notified discreetly. The province has implemented a Sexually Transmitted and Bloodborne Infection Action Plan focused on prevention, treatment, testing, education, and stigma reduction, including updated guidelines and the recommendation of Doxy-PEP to prevent infections.