COVID-19 and the impact on services for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections: Survey among First Nations, Inuit and Métis people

Certain populations in Canada have faced greater challenges in accessing healthcare services due to public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Between July 2021 and January 2022, we conducted an anonymous online survey of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people to better understand how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected their ability to access:

• sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBI) prevention, testing and treatment services
• harm reduction services

Planning and implementation of the survey was done in collaboration with the national Indigenous STBBI Working Group. This group is supported by the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health and the National Collaborating Center for Infectious Diseases.

Survey respondents included anyone:

• 15 years or older who was living in Canada and
• who identified as First Nations, Inuit or Métis

In total, 1,183 people from across Canada participated.

The collected information will be used to document the unintended consequences of the COVID-19 public health measures on these communities. This includes changes in their access to health services. The survey will provide valuable information to analyze STBBI trends, inform policy and improve services in Canada.

Results

The survey data are in the process of being analyzed by the Indigenous STBBI Working Group. Analysis is being done with support from the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health and the National Collaborating Center for Infectious Diseases. Findings will be shared at a later date.

For more information about this survey, contact phac.tracks.aspc@canada.ca.