AIDS or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This virus can be passed along from person to person through direct contact with blood or other bodily fluids such as semen. You can get HIV in a number of ways including:
- Having unprotected sex.
- Sharing any drug equipment (needles, spoons, filters, pipes, snorting devices, cookers, etc.).
- Getting an tattoo or body piercing with needles that have not been properly sterilized.
- Through breast milk.
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, an estimated 25% of people living with HIV do not know they have it. That means that they could be spreading the infection to other people.
The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested.
The Sexual Health Clinic at the Thunder Bay District Health Unit provides free, anonymous HIV testing, as well as counselling, discussing treatment options, and referrals to appropriate community and health-care services.
Anonymous HIV Testing is private and confidential. Clinic staff will give you a card with your private number code, which will let you access your test results anonymously.
Please visit our Sexual Health Clinic page for hours and to book an appointment.
Anonymous HIV Self-Test Kits
HIV Self-Test Kits are not publicly funded, and they are not available at the Thunder Bay District Health Unit. However, there are research studies in Canada distributing the kits for free within our area:
- Ready To Know
- Download the I’m Ready, Test app to order up to three free HIV self-testing kits. Tests can be mailed to your door.
- Get A Kit
- Complete the registration online using the above link. Free HIV Self Test kits are available across Ontario and are delivered in discrete packaging through the mail.
- BioLytical Laboratories
- HIV Self Test kits can be purchased online directly from the manufacturer.
For Further Information
Call the Sexual Health Clinic: (807) 625-5900
or toll-free: 1-888-294-6630