Brazil expands STI testing and prevention during festivals and community outreach

In Bahia, the state health department deployed 16 testing posts for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during the June festivals, spending 8.8 million reais. By Saturday morning, 11,264 exams had been performed on 2,946 people, yielding 111 positive results – 104 syphilis cases, one HIV infection, four hepatitis B and two hepatitis C. Those diagnosed received counseling, treatment referrals and, where appropriate, post‑exposure prophylaxis (PEP) or pre‑exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The campaign also distributed 127 self‑test kits, more than 571,000 condoms and other preventive supplies.

Separately, the Fundação de Vigilância em Saúde do Amazonas (FVS‑RCP) used a mobile “Carona na Prevenção” bus in Manaus’s west zone to offer free rapid tests for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B/C. The event conducted 200 rapid tests for 50 attendees and handed out 7,000 condoms, 2,000 lubricant sachets and 85 HIV self‑test kits. Officials highlighted that early diagnosis and community‑based testing are essential to interrupt STI transmission and improve public health outcomes.