The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is launching a pilot program to install up to 200 free condom dispensers in public locations in all NWT communities to combat the ongoing syphilis outbreak.
To launch this program, the Department of Health and Social Services is working with the business, education, and local government sectors to identify locations where condom dispensers can be placed. Free condoms will be available in public places people frequently visit, as well as places that are open outside of regular business hours. Efforts will prioritize smaller communities with limited access to condoms for purchase.
The Northwest Territories has one of the highest rates of syphilis in Canada. In response, the health system is ramping up awareness and testing efforts to trace and treat infections, including promotion on how to prevent infections. Free condoms have been identified as a priority and a gap in current sexual health promotion in the NWT. While condom use does not guarantee full protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), men who regularly use condoms during their sexual encounters can significantly reduce the risk of STIs. This project is meant to ensure a consistent supply of condoms are available throughout the NWT during the syphilis outbreak to limit the spread and improve access to safer sex options.
Dispensers will begin to be placed in communities over the coming weeks.
For more information on the syphilis outbreak, visit: https://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/en/services/syphilis
For media requests, please contact:
Jeremy Bird
Manager, Communications
Department of Health and Social Services
Government of the Northwest Territories
(867) 767-9052 ext. 49034
Community Condom Access Pilot Program - Government of Northwest Territories
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