2d:T45d,

The aim of this study was to examine trends in infectious syphilis epidemiology among women in Winnipeg, Canada. A descriptive study of syphilis among Winnipeg residents between 2003 and 30 June 2015 was undertaken. Adjusted rate ratios (ARR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) from Poisson regression analyses are reported. Characteristics of men and women were compared using logistic regression, with adjusted odds ratios (AOR) reported. Between 2014 and 2015, the rate of syphilis was 1.7/100,000, representing a five-fold increase since 2006–2013. All cases have been heterosexual, 90% 20–39 years of age, and 59% living in Winnipeg’s inner core. Approximately 24% were pregnant at diagnosis; no cases of congenital syphilis have been reported. Compared to men, women were more likely to report alcohol use (AOR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.2–11.9) and co-infection with chlamydia (AOR: 5.0, 95% CI: 1.1–22.9). In conclusion, the rates of infectious syphilis are increasing among women. Prenatal screening and education for inner-core women and the health care providers serving them should be prioritized.

2e:T427,

Early identification of HIV infection is of obvious benefit to patients’ health, yet many remain unaware of their diagnosis, with detrimental consequences. Current guidelines suggest patients with pneumonia are offered an HIV test. Early diagnosis of HIV infection in critically ill patients within intensive care is vital in reducing mortality and morbidity. In 2015, we established automated HIV testing for patients with pneumonia admitted to our intensive care unit. Prior to our change in practice, our HIV testing rate in patients with pneumonia was 29% within two weeks of admission. After implementation, 80% of patients with pneumonia were tested for HIV within 48 h (73% with 24 h). This intervention also facilitated an early and unexpected HIV diagnosis in one patient, which then allowed prompt tailored therapy and was a significant factor in their survival. Based on our success, we suggest other centres may benefit from employing a similar automated HIV testing system, especially in targeted patient groups such as severe pneumonia.

2f:T46c,

The sexualised use of recreational drugs (Mephedrone, GBL/GHB, Crystal Meth) generally known as ‘chemsex’ in men who have sex with men (MSM) is thought to be associated with sexually transmitted infection (STI) acquisition; however there is little data showing a direct relationship. We reviewed 130 randomly selected cases of MSM with an STI attending our STI service and 130 controls (MSM attending the STI service who did not have an STI) between 5 May 2015 and 2 November 2015. Reported condomless anal sex was significantly higher in cases 90/121 (74%) compared with controls 65/122 (53%); (χ²= 11.71, p < 0.005, OR 2.54). Recreational drug use in the cases 38/122 (31%) was significantly greater than in controls 20/125 (16%); (χ²= 7.88, p < 0.005, OR 2.37). This demonstrates a link between STI acquisition and recreational drug use in MSM. Harm reduction initiatives identifying and addressing party drug use can help to improve the sexual health of MSM, including reducing risk-taking behaviours.