A campaign in Kingston, Ont., and the surrounding region aims to raise awareness about the spread of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI). The Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington public health unit spearheaded the campaign, which was prompted by a significant increase in syphilis cases in the area. Nurse Julie Sousa noted that the region now has double the rate of infections compared to the rest of the province, with a noticeable rise starting in 2021 and a significant increase in 2022. The campaign’s first phase includes posters on city buses illustrating the potential risks of oral sex and the importance of testing during pregnancy. Some posters take a more explicit approach, aiming to leverage shock value to promote screening and follow-up of symptoms.
The explicit nature of some campaign posters is intentional in order to create a culture where STI testing is destigmatized. These posters target an audience with an average age of 30 to 34 and will be featured on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and the dating app Grindr. While some Kingston residents appreciate the effort to raise awareness, others feel that the posters lack sufficient information about syphilis rates and testing. Some believe that education about testing for STIs should start at a young age and be incorporated into the educational system. Despite differing opinions, many agree that discussing STIs openly is important and should not be avoided.
The campaign’s goal of leveraging shock value with explicit posters has sparked mixed reactions from Kingston residents. While some feel that the posters are an effective way to start conversations about STIs, others believe that they do not provide enough information to encourage more people to get tested. Critics point out that simply displaying posters may not be enough to remind people about the importance of testing and prevention. The discussion around the campaign highlights the importance of comprehensive education about STIs, starting from a young age and within the educational system.
Ultimately, the campaign aims to increase awareness about syphilis and promote testing and follow-up of symptoms. By using explicit imagery and targeted messaging, the campaign seeks to spark conversations and promote a culture of open discussion about STIs. While some residents may have reservations about the approach taken by the campaign, others see it as a necessary step to address the rising rates of syphilis in the region. Moving forward, the health unit will continue to monitor the impact of the campaign and make adjustments as needed to ensure that the message reaches the intended audience. The important goal of the campaign is to reduce the stigma surrounding STIs and encourage more people to get tested and seek treatment when necessary.
