STIs Having sex means you could also have other STIs (sexually transmissible infections). Condoms can help protect you from most STIs, but you can still get some STIs even when you use condoms. They can make you really sick and damage your body if you do not get treatment.
If you have an STI, it is easier to get or pass on HIV. You should ask for an STI test at the same time as your HIV test.
There are very high rates of some STIs in many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Getting an STI test is a step to improving the health of our communities.
Hepatitis Sharing needles and syringes can spread HIV but also infections like hepatitis B or hepatitis C. If you have been sharing needles, syringes, or other injecting equipment tell your doctor and get tested for hepatitis B and C at the same time as your HIV test.
Check out video for more information on other illnesses by the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute.
Vaccination can prevent mpox and is available for anyone at high risk of infection. This includes men who have sex with men, sex workers, health workers and anyone who may be in contact with a person infected with mpox. Please contact your nearest Aboriginal Medical Service or Sexual Health clinic for advice. See factsheet for more information.
