Southwestern Public Health has launched GetAKit, a free and discreet at-home STI testing service for adults over 18 in St. Thomas, Elgin and Oxford Counties.
The initiative aims to reduce barriers to testing, including stigma, privacy concerns, and rural healthcare access.
“It’s important to know your sexual health status if you are a sexually active adult, regardless of your relationship status” said Carolyn Richards, Sexual Health Program Manager.
The kit allows users to test for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Hepatitis C, and HIV, all of which can impact reproductive and overall health if untreated. “Syphilis is often called the great imitator, as it often mimics symptoms of other illnesses or has no visible symptoms at all. It is also on the rise in this region,” says Richards.
Syphilis cases have also risen in the region, with just one case in 2016 compared to 24 in 2024.
Tests can be ordered online at getakit.ca, with results available within two days. Kits are mailed discreetly, or users can opt for lab testing.
Written by: K. Freeman
