Skip to main content
Home

"I want to" Navigation

  • apply
    Apply
    • Accessible Transit
    • Building Permit
    • Business Licence
    • Film Permit
    • Host an Event
    • Jobs at the City
    • Lottery Licence
    • Marriage Licence
    • Minor Variance
    • Ontario Works
    • Zoning Verification
  • pay
    Pay
    • Administrative Penalty System (APS) Notice
    • Dog Licence
    • Parking Penalty Notice
    • Property Tax
    • Provincial Offences Notice
  • register
    Register
    • Delegate at Council
    • Property Tax eBilling
    • Recreation Programs
  • report
    Report
    • Graffiti
    • Lost & Found Pets
    • Municipal By-law Complaint
  • calendar
    Reserve/Book
    • COVID-19 Vaccine
    • Flu Vaccine
    • Facility Rental
    • Golf Tee Time
    • Hamilton Sign Lighting
  • search
    Search
    • Building Permit Status
    • City By-laws
    • Construction in your area
    • HSR Bus Schedules
    • Property Records
    • The Lobbyist Registry
    • Waste Collection Calendars
  • request
    Contact
    • City of Hamilton Offices
    • City Councillors
    • Mayor's Office
    • Municipal Service Centres
    • City Directory
  • learn
    Stay Informed
    • City News & Notices
    • Council & Committee Meeting Calendar
    • Public Engagement & Consultations
    • Social Media
    • Subscribe to E-Updates
  • watch
    Watch
    • Council Chamber Live Stream
    • Room 264 Live Stream
    • Inside City of Hamilton YouTube

Hamilton Search

Main navigation

  • people People & Programs
    • Adults 55+ Services
      • Age Friendly Hamilton
      • Senior and Older Adult Resources
    • CityHousing Hamilton
      • Applicants
        • Application Process
        • Housing Search
        • Market Rent Housing
        • Student Housing
      • Properties & Development
        • Asset Renewal
        • Development Projects
        • Featured Property
      • Tenants
        • Housing Support Programs
        • Maintenance and Repairs
        • Paying Your Rent
        • Pest Control - CityHousing Hamilton Request
        • Tenant Safety
    • Community Funding & Grant Programs
      • City Enrichment Fund
      • Hamilton Future Fund
      • One-Time Enhancement Grant Relief Program
      • Placemaking Grant Pilot Program
    • Early Years & Child Care
      • Child Care Services
        • Child Care Registry
        • Child Care Subsidy Calculator
        • Financial Support for Child Care
        • Ontario Child Care Tax Credit
        • Red Hill Family Centre
      • Early Childhood Education
      • Early Years Services
        • Early Years Community Partners Resources
        • Early Years Programs & Services
        • EarlyON Child and Family Centres Locations
    • Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
      • Indigenous Relations
        • Land Acknowledgment
        • Urban Indigenous Strategy
        • Urban Indigenous Strategy Implementation Plan
        • Indigenous Landmarks & Monuments Review
        • National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
        • Indigenous Events & Initiatives
        • Indigenous Hub
      • Accessibility Services
        • Accessibility Feedback/Complaint Form
        • Accessibility Guidelines & Policies
        • Multi-Year Accessibility Plan
      • Charter of Rights of Children & Youth
      • Hate Prevention & Mitigation Initiative
    • Financial & Stability Supports
      • Ontario Works
        • Apply for Ontario Works
        • Access your file with MyBenefits
        • Receiving Ontario Works
      • Support Programs
        • Affordable Transit Pass Program
        • Learning, Earning and Parenting Program (LEAP)
        • Dental & Denture Services
        • Free Menstrual Products Pilot
        • Funerals, Burials & Cremations
        • Home Management Program
        • Special Supports Program
        • Snow Angels
        • Holiday Registry
    • Hamilton Municipal Cemeteries
      • Cemeteries Updates
      • Planning Ahead
        • Guide to Services & Merchandise
        • Pre-Planning
        • Start The Conversation
      • Cremation & Burial
        • Burial Options
        • Cremation Options
        • Field of Honour
        • Natural Burial
      • Products & Services
        • Historical Family Search
        • Memorialization Options
        • Monuments & Markers
        • Personalization Options
        • Service Options
      • Our Cemeteries
        • Cemeteries By-laws
        • Cemeteries Directory
        • Historical Walking Tours
        • Remembering Services
    • Housing & Shelter
      • Housing for Newcomers
        • Hamilton Housing Guide
        • Low Income Housing
        • Purchasing a Home
      • Preventing & Ending Homelessness
        • Cathedral Temporary Shelter
        • City of Hamilton Encampment Response
        • Emergency Shelters & Drop-ins
        • Hamilton’s Homelessness Ending Strategy
        • Housing & Homelessness Action Plan
        • Point in Time Connection
      • Supported Housing
        • Applicant and Tenant Review
        • Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit
        • Emergency Repair Program
        • Eviction Prevention
        • Housing Allowances
        • Housing Provider Information
        • Housing Stability & Rent Ready Benefits
        • Ontario Renovates Programs
        • Priority Applications
        • Social Housing
        • Utilities Arrears Program
      • Tenant & Landlord Resources
        • Fire Safety for Rental Properties
        • Landlord Information
        • Landlords Role in Hot Weather
        • Register a Tenant By-law Complaint
        • Rent Supplement Program for Landlords
        • Rental Property By-laws
        • Second-hand Smoke in Shared Housing
        • Tenant Defence Fund Pilot Program
        • Tenant Information
    • Long-term Care
      • Macassa Lodge
      • Residential Care Facilities Subsidy Program
      • Wentworth Lodge
    • New to Hamilton
      • Hamilton Welcomes Ukrainians
      • Healthcare in Hamilton
      • Settlement Services for Newcomers
      • Studying in Hamilton
        • After Graduation
        • Arriving in Hamilton
        • Before You Arrive
        • Connect to Your City
    • Outreach & Education
      • Forestry Outreach & Education
      • Museums Learning Adventures
      • Waste Management Outreach & Education
        • Waste Collection Safety
        • Waste Facilities Educational Videos
        • Waste Management Community Education
        • Waste Management School Presentations
      • Water Outreach & Education
        • Children's Water Festival
        • Water Education Resources
        • World Toilet Day
    • Public Health
      • Alcohol, Drugs & Gambling
        • Alcohol & Drugs
        • Alcohol, Drug & Gambling Services
        • Hamilton Opioid Information System
        • Harm Reduction Services
          • Get Free Naloxone Kits
          • Needle Syringe Supplies and Disposal
          • Street Health Clinics
          • The Van Needle Syringe Program
      • Breastfeeding
        • Breastfeeding Supports
        • Breastfeeding Basics
        • Breastfeeding & Birth Control
        • Breastfeeding Beyond 6 Months
        • Breastfeeding Friendly Places
      • Dental Health
        • Dental Health Bus
        • Downtown Dental Clinic
        • Children's Dental Health
        • Adult & Senior's Dental Health
        • Fluoride
      • Diseases & Conditions
        • Coronavirus (COVID)
          • COVID-19 Data
          • COVID-19 School and Childcare Information
          • COVID-19 Symptoms, Positive Test Results or Close Contact
          • COVID-19 Testing
          • COVID-19 Vaccine
          • COVID-19 in the Workplace
          • Protect Yourself and Others
        • Ebola Virus Disease (EVD)
        • Group A Streptococcus (GAS)
        • Influenza (Flu)
        • Tuberculosis
        • Viral Encephalitis & Meningitis
      • Environmental Health & Hazards
        • Animal & Insect-related Diseases
          • Lyme Disease & Ticks
          • Rabies
          • West Nile Virus
        • Climate Change & Air Quality
        • Cold Alerts & Community Response
        • Environmental Illnesses
          • Lead
          • Legionnaires' Disease
          • Radon
        • Heat Warnings & Heat-Related Illness
        • Safe Water Program
        • Sun Safety
      • Food Safety
        • Food Safety at Home
      • Health Care Professionals
        • Dental Programs & Clinic Resources
        • Prenatal, Family & Child Health Referrals
        • Reporting Infectious Diseases
          • Rabies Reporting & Vaccines
          • Tuberculosis Reporting, Guidelines and Resources
        • STI Guidelines, Medication Ordering & Blood Exposure Reporting
        • Smoking & Substance Use Referrals
        • Vaccine Ordering, Cold Chain & Adverse Events Reporting
      • Health Inspection Results
        • Convictions & Orders in Hamilton
        • Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Investigations
      • Healthy Eating
        • Healthy Eating on a Budget
        • How Much Does Healthy Eating Cost
        • Feeding Your Baby & Children
        • Healthy Snacks for Sports
        • Cooking Clubs & After-School Programs
        • Community Food Advisors
      • Healthy Schools
        • Child and Youth Health Atlas
        • Health Resources for Schools
          • Healthy Eating & Nutrition
          • Healthy Sexuality
          • Mental Health Promotion
          • Personal Safety & Injury Prevention
          • Physical Activity Resources
          • Positive School Climate
          • School Dental Screening
          • Sun Safety, Shade and the Importance of Trees
          • Tobacco & Vaping
          • Visual Health Information for Schools
        • Healthy Schools Approach
        • Public Health Nurses in Schools
      • Mental Health Services
        • Child & Adolescent Services
        • Mental Health & Street Outreach Program
      • Parenting Supports
        • Parenting Groups in Hamilton
        • Check-It Out Drop-In Sessions
        • Car Seat Support
        • Home Safety
        • Children's Growth & Development
        • Dealing with Difficult Temperaments
        • Parenting Babies
        • Parenting School Aged Children
          • Bullying
          • Head Lice
      • Physical Activity
      • Pregnancy & Prenatal Health
        • Prenatal Supports
          • Welcome Baby Prenatal Nutrition Program
            • Welcome Baby Members
        • Plan a Healthy Pregnancy
        • Home Visiting Programs
      • Sexual Health
        • Sexual Health Clinics
        • Sexually Transmitted Infections
        • Contraception
      • Smoking & Vaping
        • Quit Smoking
        • Second-hand Smoke
        • Smoke & Vape Free Spaces
      • Vaccines & Immunizations
        • Vaccine Safety
        • Vaccines & Children
        • Reporting Vaccinations
        • School Vaccine Clinics
        • Community Vaccine Clinic
        • Vaccine-Preventable Diseases
          • Bacterial Encephalitis & Meningitis
          • Chickenpox
          • Herpes Zoster (Shingles)
          • Measles
          • Meningococcal Disease
          • Monkeypox
          • Mumps
          • Pertussis or Whooping Cough
        • Flu Vaccine Clinics
      • Visual Health
  • home Home & Neighbourhood
    • Animals & Pets
      • Adopt or Foster a Pet
        • Adoptions
        • Foster an Animal
      • Responsible Pet Ownership
        • Claiming Your Pet from the Shelter
        • File an Animal-Related By-law Complaint
        • Hot Cars and Pets
        • Pet Etiquette on City Properties
        • Responsible Animal Ownership By-law
        • Spay or Neuter Your Pet
        • Vaccinate Your Pet
      • Dogs
        • Dog Parks and Free Running Areas
        • Dog Licence
        • Dog Owners' Liability Act
        • Dog Bite Prevention
      • Cats
        • Community Cats
        • Register Your Cat
      • Lost, Found or Surrender
        • Lost and Found Pets
        • Stray Animals
        • Surrendering an Animal
      • Other Domesticated Animals
      • Wildlife
        • Feeding Wildlife
        • Living with Wildlife
        • Sick, Injured or Orphaned Wildlife
      • Volunteer or Donate
        • Volunteer at Animal Services
        • Donate to Animal Services
    • Emergency Services
      • Emergency Preparedness
        • After an Emergency
        • During an Emergency
        • Emergency Information in Different Languages
        • Preparing for Emergencies
          • Tips for Earthquakes
          • Tips for Flooding
          • Tips for Hazardous Materials
          • Tips for Power Outages
          • Tips for Tornadoes
          • Tips for Winter Storms
      • Fire Department
        • About the Hamilton Fire Department
        • Camp FFIT Hamilton
        • Fire Permits, Inspections, Reports and Services
          • Daycare Inspections
          • Family Fireworks Sales Permit
          • Filming related services
          • Foster Home and Group Home Inspections
          • Open Air Burning Permit
          • Residential and Commercial Inspections
        • Fire Prevention
          • Family Fireworks Safety
          • Fire Prevention on the Farm
          • Holiday Fire Safety
          • Home Fire Safety
          • Smoke Alarms & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
          • Student Accommodation Safety Tips
          • Winter Fire Safety
        • Fire Safety Education, Public Events and Programs
        • Fire Stations
      • Paramedics
        • About the Hamilton Paramedic Service
        • Make the Right Call in Non-Emergency Situations
        • Medical Emergency Information Program
        • Public Access Defibrillation Program
        • Ambulance Patient Records
        • Hamilton Paramedic Service Master Plan
    • Environmental Stewardship
      • Burlington Street Sewage Spill & Response
      • Chedoke Creek Remediation
        • Chedoke Creek Spill & Remediation Activities
      • Clean & Green Neighbourhood Grant
      • Community Environmental Initiatives
        • Adopt-a-Park
          • Community Improvement Report
        • Community Clean-up Trailer
        • Community Tree Planting
        • Put Waste in the Right Place
        • Reporting Graffiti
        • Team Up to Clean Up
      • Environmental Plans & Strategies
        • Clean & Green Hamilton Strategy
        • Hamilton's Climate Action Strategy
          • Community Energy and Emissions Plan
          • Hamilton’s Climate Change Impact Adaptation Plan
        • Office of Energy Initiatives
        • Urban Forest Strategy
      • Our Harbour
        • Hamilton Clean Harbour Program
        • Current Clean Harbour Projects
        • Woodward Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades
        • Completed Clean Harbour Projects
      • Pollinators
    • Garbage & Recycling
      • Apartment Waste
        • Apartment Blue Cart Recycling
        • Apartment Garbage & Bulk Items
        • Apartment Green Bin & Composting
        • Property Owners, Managers & Superintendents
      • Blue Box & Recycling
        • Blue Box
        • Gold Box Recycling
        • Recycling
      • Business Waste
        • Business Waste Eligibility
        • Waste Collection for Businesses
        • Waste Directory for Businesses
      • Garbage & Bulk Items
        • Bulk Items and Furniture
        • Garbage
        • Glanbrook Landfill Site
        • Illegal Dumping
      • Green Bin & Composting
        • Backyard Composting
        • Compost Giveaways
        • Composting & Your Green Bin
        • Green Bin
      • Waste & Recycling Facilities
        • Appliances and Scrap Metal
        • Community Recycling Centres
        • Household Hazardous Waste
        • Reuse Shed
      • Waste Collection Schedule
      • Yard Waste
    • Getting Around
      • Active Transportation Benchmarking Program
      • Biking & Cyclists
        • Bike Month
        • Bike Parking Request Form
        • Bike Parking
        • Cycling Groups & Shops
        • Cycling Infrastructure
          • Bay Street Bike Lanes
          • Cannon Street Cycle Track
          • Keddy Access Trail
          • Mountain Climber on HSR for Cyclists
        • Cycling Routes & Maps
        • Cycling Safety & Education
        • Hamilton Bike Share
        • Personal Use Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Program
      • Driving & Traffic
        • CarShare in Hamilton
        • Permanent Road, Alley and Walkway Closures
        • Queen Street Two-way Traffic Conversion
        • Road Closures
        • Taxi Services in Hamilton
        • Temporary Road Use Permits
        • Truck Route Network
        • Vision Zero - Roadway Safety
          • Distracted Driving
          • Neighbourhood Speed Limit Reductions
          • Pedestrian Crossovers
          • Rail Safety
          • Roadway Safety Tools
          • Roundabouts
          • Safe Stopping
          • Seatbelt Safety
          • Slow Down, Move Over for Emergency Vehicles
          • Speeding & Slow Down Zones
          • Winter Driving
      • Parking
        • MTO Accessible Parking Permit Exemptions in Hamilton
        • Municipal Car Parks
        • On-Street Parking
        • Parking Meter or Municipal Lot Parking Request Form
        • Parking Meters & Pay Machines
        • Parking Near Schools
        • Passport Parking App
        • Residential Parking on Private Property
        • Special Event Parking
        • Temporary Regulation Enforcement Request
        • Towing
      • School Zones & Safety Tips
        • Back to School Safety
        • School Crossing Guards
      • Smart Commute
        • Active School Travel
        • Find Your Carpool Match
        • Join Smart Commute
        • Plan Your Trip
        • Safety Tips for Commuting
        • Smart Commute Events
        • Smart Commute Member Organizations
      • Streets & Sidewalks
        • Complete Street Reports for Wards
        • Open Streets
        • Pavement Markings
        • Road & Sidewalk Maintenance
        • Sidewalk Snow Clearing
        • Snow Clearing
        • Street Lighting
        • Traffic Island Beautification
      • Walking & Pedestrians
        • Accessible Pedestrian Signals
        • Pedestrian Safety
    • HSR
      • Accessible Transit
        • ATS Eligibility & Registration
        • Accessible Low Floor Buses
        • DARTS
        • Taxi Scrip Program
      • Fares
        • Fares & Photo IDs
        • PRESTO Cards
        • PRESTO E-Tickets Mobile App
        • Transfers & Connections
      • Riding with HSR
        • #ReadytoRide
        • Using HSR
        • Bikes on Buses
        • Customer Service
        • Bus Stop Seat Pilot
        • Help Us (Re)envision the HSR
        • HSR Customer Research Panel
      • Schedule & Route Tools
        • Schedules & Detours
        • Special Event Buses
        • Trip Planning Tools
        • HSR myRide On-Demand
        • Trans-Cab
        • Ti-Cat Ticket to Ride Program
    • House & Home
      • Basement Flooding
        • Basement Flooding Preparedness
        • Protective Plumbing Devices
        • Protective Plumbing Program
        • Sewer Lateral Management Program
      • Gardens & Trees
        • City Trees
        • Free Tree Giveaway
        • Invasive Species
        • Pesticide Alternatives
        • Private Trees
        • Rain Barrel Sale
        • Street Tree Planting Program
        • Tree Diseases
        • Tree Ownership
        • Water Efficient Lawns & Gardens
        • Watering Restrictions
      • Home Water Services
        • Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project
        • Frozen Pipes
        • Lead Water Service Replacement
        • Lead in Your Drinking Water
        • Low Water Pressure
        • Service Line Warranty Program
        • Shutting Off Your Water
        • Water Efficient Homes
        • Water Meters
        • Water Rates
        • Water Service Line Replacement
      • Pest Control
        • Bed Bugs in the Workplace
        • Bed Bugs
        • Cockroaches
        • Landlord Pest Control Responsibilities
        • Rats
      • Private Wells & Cisterns
        • Cistern Maintenance & Water Testing
        • Private Wells
        • Well Maintenance & Water Testing
        • Well Water After a Flood
        • Arsenic limits in Drinking Well Water
        • Naturally Occurring Lead in Bedrock
        • PFOS and Propylene Glycol
      • Property
        • Encroachment Agreements
        • Lot Grading & Drainage
        • Property Damage
        • Property Survey
        • Property Use By-laws
        • Survey Markings on Your Property
        • University District Safety Initiative
        • Vacant Buildings Registry
      • Water Pollution Prevention
        • Catch Basin & Street Drain Use
        • Downspout Disconnections
        • Emptying Pools & Hot Tubs
        • Flushables
        • Household Fats, Oil and Grease
        • Spills to the Sewer
    • Property Taxes
      • Municipal Accommodation Tax
      • Property Tax Billing
        • Changes to Your Property Tax Bill
        • Pay Your Property Tax
        • Property Tax Due Dates and Penalties
        • Request for Tax Certificate
        • Sale of Properties for Tax Arrears
        • Tax Assistance Programs
        • Understanding Your Property Tax Bill
        • eBilling for Property Tax
      • Understanding Property Tax
        • Area Rating
        • How Property Taxes are Calculated
        • Municipal Tax Competitiveness Study
        • Property Assessment
        • Property Inquiry
        • Tax Calculator
        • Tax Impact Mapping
      • Vacant Home Tax
    • Tickets, Fines & Penalties
      • Administrative Penalty Notice
      • Parking Penalty Notice
      • Provincial Offences Notice
    • Water, Wastewater & Stormwater
      • Stormwater Management
        • Low Impact Development
        • Stormwater Management Ponds
        • Surface Water Management
        • Surface Water Quality Program
      • Wastewater Collection & Treatment
        • Biosolids Management
        • Monitoring Wastewater Overflows and Bypasses
        • Sewer Lateral Cross-Connections
        • Sewer Systems
        • Wastewater Quality Management System
        • Wastewater Systems
      • Water Treatment & Distribution
        • Community Wells
          • Lynden Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory Officially Lifted
        • Corrosion Control
        • Drinking Water Quality Management System
        • Drinking Water Quality
        • Drinking Water System
        • Hydrant Flushing
        • Low Level Water Conditions
        • Source Water Protection
          • Source Water Protection Restricted Land Use Application
        • Water Fluoridation
  • city Build, Invest & Grow
    • InvestinHamilton.ca
    • Buying & Selling with the City
      • Bids and Tenders
        • Bid Opportunities
        • Fair Wage Policy and Fair Wage Schedule
        • Procurement Policy By-law
        • Professional and Consultant Services Roster
        • Vendor Information
      • Real Estate
        • Inventory of City-Owned Properties
        • Properties for Sale or Lease
          • 1226 Old Golf Links Road, Ancaster
          • 1258 Old Golf Links Road, Ancaster
          • 28 James Street North, Hamilton
          • 288-294 Fruitland Road, Stoney Creek
          • 350 King Street East, Hamilton
          • 435 Carluke Road West, Hamilton
          • 71 Main Street West, Hamilton
          • 89 King Street East, Hamilton
          • 95 Dundurn St. S., Hamilton
          • Piers 5, 6 & 7 West Harbour Development Blocks
        • Real Estate Portfolio Management
    • Construction & Renovation
      • Construction in Your Area
        • Concession St and Mountain Brow Improvements Project
        • Dickenson Road Sanitary Trunk Sewer Project
        • Ferguson Avenue Pump Station Facility Upgrades
        • HDR2A Scenic Reservoir Expansion Joint Repairs
        • Highway 8 Improvements Project
        • Mountain Park Avenue Improvements
        • Satellite City – Trunk Sewer Rehabilitation
        • Wilson Street East Improvements
      • Residential Building & Renovation
        • Apply for a Building Permit Online with ePLANS
        • Building Permit Application Requirements
        • Building Permit Fees
        • Building Permit Review and Approval
        • Building Inspections
        • Hiring a Designer for Building Permit Drawings
        • Property Record Search
        • Residential Construction Requirements for Radon Gas Mitigation
        • Residential Infill Construction
        • Accessory Buildings
        • Porches and Decks
        • Residential Fences
        • Swimming Pools
        • Tents
        • Building & Demolition Permits Activity
    • Hamilton Music & Film
      • Filming in Hamilton
        • Film Permit Process
        • Information for Hamilton Residents and Business Owners
        • Plan Your Shoot
      • Music in Hamilton
        • Musician Entrepreneur Conference
        • Musician Support Programs
        • New or Mid-Career Musicians in Hamilton
        • Street Performers
        • Women+ in (Creative) Business Mentoring Program
    • Operating a Business
      • Business By-laws
        • Sign By-law
      • Child Care Operators
        • Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement
        • Early Years System
        • Fee Assistance
        • Funding Agreements
        • Funding Opportunities
        • Operator Resources
      • Commercial Water & Sewer
        • Backflow Prevention Program
        • Construction Site and Wastewater Management
        • Sewer Use By-law
        • Small Drinking Water Systems
        • Wastewater Abatement Program
        • Water Hauler
      • EarlyON Child and Family Centre Service Providers
        • Funding Agreements
        • Provider Resources
        • Qualified Teams & Staff Requirements
        • Serious Incident Reporting Policy
        • Services & Responsibilities
      • Health Requirements & Inspections
        • Child Care Centres
        • Cooling Towers
        • Drinking Water Haulers
        • Food Premises & Food Handling
        • Group Homes, Lodging Homes & Funeral Homes
        • Personal Service Settings
        • Public Swimming Pools & Spas
        • Residential Care Facilities
        • Selling Tobacco & E-Cigarettes in Hamilton
        • Smoke and Vape-Free Public Places and Workplaces
        • Tanning Bed Regulation
      • Workplace Policies & Programs
        • Healthy Eating in the Workplace
        • Healthy Workplaces
        • Physical Activity in the Workplace
        • Work Stress Prevention
    • Planning & Development
      • Committee of Adjustment & Delegated Consent Authority
        • Agendas & Notices
        • Land Severance (Consent)
        • Minor Variance
        • Process & Participation for Committee of Adjustment
      • Community Improvement Plans and Financial Incentives
      • Design Review Panel
      • Development Charges
        • Community Benefits Charges
        • Development Charges
        • Parkland Dedication Fees
      • GRIDS
        • Employment Land Review
        • GRIDS 2 and Municipal Comprehensive Review
        • GRIDS 2/MCR Urban Growth Survey
        • Land Needs Assessment
      • Heritage Properties
        • Built Heritage Inventory Strategy
          • Beasley Heritage Inventory Project
          • Downtown Dundas Built Heritage Inventory
          • Landsdale Neighbourhood Inventory
          • Melville Street Heritage Conservation District Study
          • Places of Worship Inventory Review
        • Heritage Designation Process
        • Heritage Mapping & Resources
        • Heritage Permits
        • Heritage Plaques and Markers
        • Heritage Windows
        • Municipal Heritage Register
        • Pre-Confederation Buildings
      • Official Plan
        • Official Plan Review
        • Provincial Planning Matters
        • Rental Housing Protection Policy Review
        • Rural Hamilton Official Plan
        • Secondary Plans In Progress
          • Airport Employment Growth District Secondary Plan
          • Downtown Hamilton Secondary Plan
          • Fruitland-Winona Secondary Plan
          • Waterdown Community Node Secondary Plan Study
          • West Harbour Secondary Plan
        • Urban Hamilton Official Plan
      • Planning & Design Studies
        • Bayfront Industrial Area Strategy
        • Dundas Community Node Study
        • Family Friendly Housing
        • James Street North Mobility Hub Study
        • Mountain Brow Vista Study and Management Plan
        • Pleasantview Area Land Use Study
      • Planning Applications
        • Draft Plan of Subdivision or Condominium Approval
        • Formal Consultation
        • Local Street Naming & Renaming
        • Municipal Addressing
        • Official Plan Amendment
        • Part Lot Control
        • Site Alteration Permit
        • Site Plan Approval
        • Where Development is Happening in Hamilton
        • Zoning By-law Amendment
      • Planning Policies & Guidelines
        • Airport Employment Growth District (AEGD) Wastewater System Capacity Allocation Policy
        • Staging of Development
        • Barrier-Free Guidelines
        • City-Wide Corridor Planning Principles and Design Guidelines
        • Complete Streets Design Manual
        • Comprehensive Development Guidelines and Financial Policies
        • Construction and Material Specifications
        • Coordinated Street Furniture Guidelines
        • Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment Guidelines
        • Environmental Impact Statements Guidelines
        • Financial Policies for Development
        • Guide to Coordinating Integrated Planning Processes
        • Guidelines for Hydrogeological Studies and Technical Standards for Private Services
        • Guidelines for Planning Justification Reports
        • Guidelines for Urban Design Reports
        • Innovative Stormwater Source Control Policy
        • Landscape Design Guidelines for Stormwater Facilities
        • Linkage Assessment Guidelines
        • Masonry Restoration Guidelines
        • Park and Open Space Development Guide
        • Right-of-Way Utility Installation and Permit Manual
        • Road Widening Dedication Procedure Guide
        • Sewer and Water Permit Process and Design Requirements
        • Sidewalk and Roadway Lighting Policy
        • Site Plan Guidelines
        • Standards and Approved Products Listing and Guidelines
        • Storm Drainage Policy
        • Street Naming and Renaming Policy and Guidelines
        • Telecommunication Tower and Antenna Protocol
        • Traffic Impact Study Guidelines
        • Transit Bus Stop Accessibility Criteria & Guidelines
        • Transit Oriented Development Guidelines
        • Transportation Demand Management Land Development Guidelines
        • Tree Protection Guidelines
        • Urban Braille
        • Urban Design Guidelines
        • Waste Requirements for Design of New Developments and Collection
      • Waterfront Redevelopment
        • CHH Jamesville Redevelopment
        • Copps Pier Park
        • Discovery Centre Site Strategy Development
        • Pier 8 Block 16
        • Pier 8 Development
        • Pier 8 Gateway Park
      • Zoning
        • Inclusionary Zoning
        • Interactive Zoning Mapping
        • Residential Zones Project
        • Zoning By-law 05-200
        • Zoning By-laws for the Former Communities
    • Starting a Small Business
      • Business Licences
        • Accessible Taxicab Feedback/Complaint Form
        • Accessible Taxicab Owner Licence
        • By-law to Licence and Regulate Various Businesses
        • Establishment & Mobile Licence
        • Lottery Licence
        • Rental Housing Licensing Pilot Program
        • Temporary Business Licence
        • Trade Licence
      • One Stop for Business
        • Business Facilitation
        • Business Registration
        • Hamilton Business Centre
        • What is One Stop for Business?
        • Zoning Verification and Property Report Application
      • Permits & Inspections
        • Building Permits for Small Businesses
        • Hauled Sewage Program Permits
        • Outdoor Boulevard Café Encroachment Agreements
        • Park Permits for Food Service Vehicles
        • Publication Box Permits
        • Sewer Discharge Permits
        • Sewer and Water Permits
        • Taxicab Inspections
        • Temporary Outdoor Patio Program
        • Temporary Use By-law for Temporary Tents
  • swimming Things To Do
    • TourismHamilton.com
    • Arts & Music
      • Public Art
        • Art in Public Places Policy
        • Century Street Parkette Public Art Project
        • Churchill Park Public Art Project
        • Hamilton the Electric City Public Art Project
        • Keddy Access Trail Public Art Project
        • King William Beacon and Gate Public Art Project
        • Locke Street Marker Public Art Project
        • The Big Picture - Arts Advisory Commission
        • Traffic Signal Cabinet Wraps Public Art Project
        • West Harbour - James Street Plaza Public Art Project
      • Summer Concert Series
    • Festivals & Events
      • Black History Month
      • Events Calendar
      • Fall Garden & Mum Show
      • Hamilton Canada Day at Bayfront Park
      • Hamilton Winterfest
      • Remembrance Day Services
    • Golf Hamilton
      • Chedoke Golf Club
        • Stanley Thompson
      • King's Forest Golf Club
      • Club Memberships
      • Golf Programs
        • Disc Golf
        • Winter Golf
      • Book Tee Times Online
      • Contact Information
    • Hamilton Civic Museums
      • Battlefield House Museum & Park National Historic Site
        • Information for Re-enactors
        • Re-enactment of the Battle of Stoney Creek
      • Christmas at Hamilton Civic Museums
      • Dundurn National Historic Site
      • Fieldcote Memorial Park & Museum
      • Griffin House National Historic Site
      • Group Tour Experiences
      • Hamilton & Scourge National Historic Site
      • Hamilton Children's Museum
      • Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology National Historic Site
        • Scouting and Guiding at Steam
      • Museum Events
      • The Hamilton Military Museum
      • Virtual Tours
      • Whitehern Historic House & Garden National Historic Site
    • Parks & Green Space
      • Beach Water Quality
      • Creating & Improving Parks
        • Park Amenity Studies
          • Mountainbrow Trail Feasibility Master Plan
          • Shoreline Inventory and Assessment of City Owned Waterfront Assets
          • Skateboard Park Study
        • Park Projects
          • Albion Falls South Access and Viewing Platform
          • Alexander Park Skate Park
          • Beasley Park
          • Brightside Park
          • Central Park
          • Churchill Park
          • Confederation Beach Park
          • East Mountain Trail Loop
          • Eastwood Park
          • Gage Park
          • Gatesbury Park
          • Gore Park
          • Hamilton Amateur Athletic Association Grounds
          • Mountain Drive Park
          • Mountainbrow Trail
          • Parkside Cemetery
          • Pipeline Trail from Brampton Ave to Grace Ave
          • Roxborough Park
          • Sam Lawrence Park
          • Southam Park
          • Spencercreek Estates Park
          • The Nest Gathering Space
          • Valley Skate Park
          • Victoria Park
          • Woodlands Park
        • Play Your Way
      • Gage Park Tropical Greenhouse
      • Parks & Trails
        • Park Washrooms
        • ParkFinder
        • Permitted Tobogganing Hills
        • Trails Listing
        • Water Drinking Fountains
      • Waterfall Safety
    • Recreation
      • Locations
        • Arenas
        • Recreation Centres & Indoor Pools
        • Seniors Centres & Clubs
        • Spray Pads
      • Programs
        • Adapted and Inclusive Programming
        • Drop-In Programs
          • Drop-In Gym
          • Drop-In Skate
          • Drop-In Swim
        • Outdoor Programs
          • Outdoor Ice
        • Registered Programs
          • Advanced Leadership Programs
          • Swimming Lessons
          • Adapted & Inclusive Registered (3-30 years)
          • Infant/Toddler Registered (0-3 years)
          • Preschool Registered (3-5 years)
          • Child Registered (6-8 years)
          • Child Registered (9-12 years)
          • Youth Registered (12-17 years)
          • Adult Registered (18+ years)
          • Older Adult Registered (55+ years)
        • Older Adult 55+ Programs
        • Camp Kidaca
        • The Centre - Youth Recreation
      • Recreation Job Opportunities
      • Facility Rentals
        • Sports Fields
      • Customer Service
        • Admissions & Memberships
        • How to Register
        • Recreation Assistance Program
        • Recreation Refunds
        • Recreation Video Channel
        • Swimming Policies & Guidelines
    • Venues, Facilities & Bookings
      • Event Planning Information
        • Event Accessibility
        • Event Insurance
        • Event Locations
        • Guide for Event Organizers
        • Municipal Alcohol Policy
        • Reserve Banner Space
      • Tim Hortons Field
        • Stadium Guest Information
        • Stadium Rentals
        • Tim Hortons Field Events
      • Venue Rentals & Packages
        • Birthday Parties
        • Corporate Rentals & Programs
        • Social Gatherings & Functions
          • Indoor Social Gathering Venues
          • Outdoor Social Gathering Venues
        • Wedding Venue Rentals
          • Indoor Wedding Venues
          • Outdoor Wedding Venues
  • council City & Council
    • Accountability & Transparency
      • Integrity Commissioner
        • File a Complaint with the Integrity Commissioner
      • Lobbyist Registry
        • Search the Lobbyist Registry
      • Office of the City Auditor
        • Audit Reports to Committees
        • City Auditor Scope of Work
        • Fraud & Waste Hotline
        • Whistleblower
    • Awards & Tributes
      • Arts Awards
        • Arts Awards Recipients
        • Shirley Elford Emerging Artist Commission Prize
      • Commemorative Park Bench & Tree Program
      • Community in Motion Awards
      • HMHC Heritage Recognition Awards
        • HMHC Heritage Recognition Award Recipients
        • HMHC Heritage Recognition Awards Nomination Form
      • Hamilton Signature Sign
      • Heritage Day Awards
      • Order of Hamilton
      • Senior of the Year Awards
        • Senior of the Year Award Recipients
      • Sport Volunteer Awards
      • Trillium Awards
        • Trillium Award Volunteer Judges
        • Trillium Awards Winners
      • Urban Design and Architecture Awards
        • Sustainable Building Design Panel Discussion
        • Urban Design & Architecture Awards Winners
    • By-laws & Enforcement
      • Search By-laws
      • Frequently Requested By-laws
      • Register a By-law Complaint
      • By-law Violations & Appeals
      • Discharging Firearms in Hamilton
    • City Administration
      • Senior Leadership Team
        • City Manager
        • GM, Finance & Corporate Services
        • GM, Healthy & Safe Communities
        • GM, Planning & Economic Development
        • GM, Public Works
      • City Budget
        • How to Get Involved in the Budget Process
        • Budget 101
        • 2023 Tax & Rate Budget
        • 2022 Tax & Rate Budget
        • 2021 Tax & Rate Budget
        • 2020 Tax & Rate Budget
        • 2019 Tax & Rate Budget
        • 2018 Tax & Rate Budget
      • Financial Results
        • Previous Financial Results
      • International Delegations & Study Tours
      • City Directory
    • City Clerk's Office
      • Construction Liens
      • Freedom of Information & Privacy Protection
      • File a Freedom of Information Request
      • Marriage Services
        • Apply for a Marriage Licence
        • Marriage Certificates
        • Civil Ceremonies
    • Contact Us
      • Municipal Service Centres
    • Council & Committee
      • Council & Committee Meetings
        • Meetings, Agendas & Video
        • Request to Speak to a Committee of Council
        • Committee Listing
        • Conflict of Interest Registry
      • City Council Members
        • Mayor's Office
          • Make a Request
          • City of Hamilton Flag Protocol
        • City Councillors
          • Ward 1
          • Ward 2
          • Ward 3
          • Ward 4
          • Ward 5
          • Ward 6
          • Ward 7
          • Ward 8
          • Ward 9
          • Ward 10
          • Ward 11
          • Ward 12
          • Ward 13
          • Ward 14
          • Ward 15
    • Data & Maps
      • Census Data for Hamilton
      • Internet in Hamilton
      • Open Data
        • Open Data Licence Terms and Conditions
      • Our City Survey
      • Ward Profiles
    • Jobs at the City
      • Applying for a Job
      • Employee Resources
        • Collective Agreements
        • Employee Benefits
        • Pay Information
      • Recruitment Opportunities
        • Bus Operator Recruitment
        • Full Time Firefighter Recruitment
        • Police Constable Recruitment - Lateral Transfer
        • Police Constable Recruitment - New Recruit
        • Primary Care Paramedic Recruitment
        • Roads Winter Operator Recruitment
        • School Crossing Guard Recruitment
        • Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment
      • Student Opportunities
        • High School Co-op Student Program
        • Post-Secondary Student Placements
        • Public Health Post-Secondary Student Placements
        • Summer Student Program
      • Training & Certification
        • Taxi Driver Training
      • Volunteer Opportunities
        • Community Food Advisor
        • Macassa & Wentworth Lodges Volunteers
        • Recreation Division Volunteers
        • Trillium Awards Judges
    • Municipal Election
      • Voters
        • Ask Hamilton
        • Voting in Hamilton
        • About the Voters List
        • Where to Vote
        • Vote by Mail
        • Proxy Vote
        • Find my Ward
      • Candidates & Third Party Advertisers
        • Become a Third Party Advertiser
        • Certified Candidates
        • Financial Statements
        • Registered Third Party Advertisers
      • Election Employment
      • Election Signs
      • Election Resources
        • Election Compliance Audit Process
        • Elections Accessibility Plan
        • Municipal Election Nomination Procedure
        • Municipal Election Third Party Registration Procedure
        • Procedure for Appointment for Voting Proxy
        • Procedure for the Viewing of Election Documents
        • Use of City Resources during an Election Period Policy
      • Election Results & Archives
        • 2014 Election Results
        • 2016 By-Election Results
        • 2018 Election Results
          • 2018 Poll by Poll Election Results for Mayor and Councillors
          • 2018 Poll by Poll Election Results for School Board Trustees
        • 2022 Election Results
          • 2022 Poll by Poll Election Results for Mayor and Councillors
          • 2022 Poll by Poll Election Results for School Board Trustees
        • Candidate Financial Statements
      • Election Compliance Audit Committee
    • News & Notices
      • News Releases
      • Council Communication Updates
      • Ministry Orders
      • Social Media
      • Communications & Media Relations
      • Subscribe to E-Updates
    • Plans & Strategies
      • City Projects
        • Expanding Mobility Choices
        • Light Rail Transit
        • Rapid Ready
        • Ten Year Local Transit Strategy
      • Environmental Assessments
        • Municipal Class EA Process
        • Search Environmental Assessments
      • Master Plans & Studies
        • Biosolids Master Plan
        • Flooding and Drainage Master Servicing Study
        • Hamilton Parks Master Plan
        • Hamilton’s Cycling Master Plan
        • Main Street Two Way Conversion Study
        • Parking Master Plan
        • Pipeline Trail Master Plan
        • Public Art Master Plan
        • Recreation Master Plan
        • Recreational Trails Master Plan
        • Red Hill Valley Parkway and Lincoln Alexander Parkway Feasibility Study
        • Solid Waste Management Master Plan
        • Stormwater Management Master Plan
        • Transportation Master Plan
          • Airport Employment Growth District Transportation Master Plan
          • Ancaster Transportation Master Plan
          • Binbrook Village Neighbourhood Traffic Management Plan
          • Centennial Neighbourhoods Transportation Management Plan
        • Truck Route Master Plan
        • Water and Wastewater Master Plan
        • Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater Master Plan
      • Strategies
        • 2016 - 2025 Strategic Plan
          • Term of Council Priorities 2018 to 2022
        • Archaeology Management Plan
        • Asset Management Plan
        • Biodiversity Action Plan
        • Community Safety and Well-Being Plan
        • Consumption and Treatment Services
        • Digital Strategy
        • Hamilton Drug Strategy
        • Hamilton Food Strategy
        • Hamilton Music Strategy
        • Neighbourhood Development
        • Our Future Hamilton
        • Youth Strategy
          • HamOntYouth Steering Committee Over 18 Registration Form
          • HamOntYouth Steering Committee Under 18 Registration Form
icon of condom packages
Sexual health

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Breadcrumb

  1. Home
  2. People & Programs
  3. Public Health
  4. Sexual Health
  5. Sexually Transmitted Infections
  • Public Health
  • Sexual Health
  • Sexual Health Clinics
  • Sexually Transmitted Infections
  • Contraception
decorative blue banner
Contact Us

Sexual Health Information Line Hamilton
Call 905-528-5894

Sexual Health Infoline Ontario & eChat
Call to speak with a live counsellor from anywhere in Ontario. It’s anonymous and free. (after hours, weekends, various languages)

Sexual Health Info Line Ontario 
Sexual Health Information lines are LGBTQ Ally organizations and Safe Zones.

Related Links
  • Sexual Health Ontario
  • Sex and U: Non-hormonal contraception
  • Resources from Public Health Agency of Canada
  • Safer condom use from Public Health Agency of Canada
three tubes of blood for testing for sexually transmitted diseases isolated on a blue background. testing for HIV, herpes, sti.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)

Know the risks

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection passed on by sexual intercourse or genital contact. Learn about reducing the risk and getting tested.

Reportable STIs

Ontario’s Health Promotion and Protection Act (HPPA) has indicated that certain sexually transmitted infections are reportable to the local/regional Medical Officer of Health.

Chlamydia & Gonorrhea
Syphilis
HIV & AIDS
Hepatitis

What is it?

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are both sexually transmitted infections caused by bacteria.

You can get chlamydia or gonorrhea by having unprotected oral, vaginal or anal sex or sharing sex toys with a person who has chlamydia or gonorrhea

Babies can get chlamydia or gonorrhea from their mother during birth.

Signs & Symptoms

Most people do not have symptoms for chlamydia or gonorrhea and do not know they are infected. If you have symptoms, they usually appear two days to six weeks after sex with an infected partner, but can take longer to show up. 

The only way to know if you have chlamydia or gonorrhea is to get tested.

Female signs and symptoms

Here are signs and symptoms of chlamydia and gonorrhea for females:

  • New or different discharge from the vagina
  • Abnormal bleeding in between periods
  • Burning or pain when urinating
  • Need to urinate more often
  • Abdominal pain, sometimes with chills and fever
  • Pain during or after sex
  • Bleeding during or after sex
  • Vaginal irritation
  • Rectal discharge after anal sex
  • Sore throat after oral sex

Male signs and symptoms

Here are signs and symptoms of chlamydia and gonorrhea for males:

  • Discharge from the penis
  • Burning or pain when urinating
  • Need to urinate more often
  • Pain and swelling in the testicles
  • An itchy feeling inside the penis
  • Rectal discharge after anal sex
  • Sore throat after oral sex

Ask your doctor to test for sexually transmitted infections or visit a Sexual Health Clinic for testing if you think you have chlamydia or gonorrhea. A urine sample or a swab of the cervix, penis, throat or rectum is used to test for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Do not urinate for two hours before giving a urine sample.


Chlamydia and gonorrhea are treated with antibiotics. Follow these guidelines to make sure your treatment is successful:

  • Finish all of your antibiotics, even if you are feeling better, to make sure the infection is cured.
  • Do not have oral, vaginal or anal sex for at least one week or seven days after you and your partner have been treated. Otherwise, you could re-infect each other.
  • If you use hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, use another kind of birth control such as condoms as a back-up because some antibiotics can decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraception.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding so you get antibiotics that are safe for your baby.
  • If you are pregnant, you need to have a follow-up test to make sure that the infection is cured. This test should be done four weeks after you finish your antibiotics.
  • You need to tell all sexual partners from the last two months to get tested for sexually transmitted infections. A public health nurse can help notify them for you. Your name will be kept confidential.

What happens if you are not treated?

If you are not treated for these infections:

  • You can give chlamydia and gonorrhea to your sexual partner. 
  • Women can get Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or PID, an infection that scars fallopian tubes and causes long-term pelvic pain. Women may have become infertile (unable to have children) when the fallopian tubes are blocked by scar tissue.
  • Men can develop epididymitis, a condition that causes swelling or pain in their testicles. Men may become infertile (unable to have children) when the tubes carrying the sperm are blocked by scar tissue.
  • Pregnant women with chlamydia or gonorrhea may have problems during their pregnancy and/or the infection can be passed on to a baby at birth.
  • Do not have sex. There are many ways to show love besides sex. Kissing, touching and talking feel good and are safe.
  • Practise safer sex including using condoms or dental dams from start to finish every time you have sex.
  • Limit your number of sexual partners. The chance of getting a sexually transmitted infection goes up with each new sexual partner.

Having a sexually transmitted infection increases your chances of getting other sexually transmitted infections. If you have chlamydia or gonorrhea, get tested for other sexually transmitted infections.

Additional resources

Chlamydia - Sexual Health Ontario Gonorrhea Sexual Health Ontario Sexual Health InfoLine Ontario

What is it?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection  caused by a bacteria called treponema pallidum.

You can get syphilis from:

  • Having direct contact with sores, rashes or bodily fluids such as semen, blood or vaginal fluids of a person who has syphilis.  You get syphilis during close skin-to-skin or sexual contact.
  • A pregnant woman can give syphilis to her baby before birth.  Syphilis can cause birth defects or death.

You are most likely to spread syphilis to others during the first year after getting the disease.

Signs & Symptoms

Most people who have syphilis have no symptoms. 

Syphilis progresses through different disease stages if it is not treated.  Each stage of syphilis has different symptoms:

1. Primary stage


  • A painless sore called a chancre develops at the site where bacteria entered your body, usually the penis, vagina, anus or mouth.
  • The chancre may go unnoticed because it is painless and goes away without treatment.
  • Even after the chancre goes away, the syphilis is not gone from your body.

2. Secondary stage


Weeks or months later you move into the secondary stage.  You may have:

  • Flu-like symptoms such as muscle or joint pain.
  • A rash on palms of hands, soles of feet or any part of the body.
  • Patchy hair loss.
  • Vision problems.

These symptoms go away and the infection enters a dormant stage.

3. Latent (dormant) stage


This stage occurs about one year after getting the infection. 

  • There are no visible symptoms. 
  • You can no longer pass the infection on to others.

The infection can remain in this stage for years.

Tertiary syphilis
At this stage, the infection can cause serious damage to organs in your body such as the brain, heart and blood vessels causing dementia, blindness, heart disease or death.

A blood test can tell you if you have syphilis. Sometimes a swab is taken from the chancre (if present) and examined under a microscope.


Syphilis can be treated and cured with antibiotics.

  • Antibiotics are given by needles or as pills.
  • Follow up blood tests are important to make sure the disease is gone.
  • Choose not to have sex. 
  • Avoid oral, anal and vaginal sex and close contact with the chancre or rash until you or your sexual partner finish treatment and your doctor tells you that you can no longer infect others. You can get re-infected every time you have sex with an untreated partner.
  • If you have sex, use a condom or dental dam from start to finish every time.
  • Be prepared. Keep condoms with you and be ready to use them.
  • Limit your number of partners. The chance of getting a sexually transmitted infection goes up with each new partner.
  • Get tested for sexually transmitted infections before having sex with a new partner and ask your partner to get tested too.
  • Having syphilis increases your chances of getting another sexually transmitted infection. If you test positive for syphilis, get tested for other sexually transmitted infections too, including HIV.

Additional resources

Syphilis - Sexual Health Ontario Sexual Health InfoLine Ontario

What is it?

HIV, also called Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a virus that attacks the immune system by destroying white blood cells that protect the body from infections.

AIDS, also called Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, occurs when the immune system is so weakened by HIV that you can get a life threatening illness such as pneumocystis pneumonia.

Who has to know if you have HIV?

If you have HIV, you are required to tell:

  • Your past and current sexual or needle sharing partners, so that they can be tested. 
  • Any future sexual or needle sharing partners. You need to practice safer sex, including using condoms for oral, vaginal or anal sex, if you have HIV.

You can get HIV by:

  • Having unprotected vaginal or anal sex with a person who has HIV
  • Sharing needles or equipment for drugs

Having unprotected oral sex is a lower risk activity for HIV transmission.  Babies can get HIV from mothers through birth or breastfeeding.

The body fluids that contain HIV are:

  • Blood
  • Vaginal and rectal fluids
  • Semen
  • Breast milk

HIV is not spread by hugging, kissing, sharing utensils with or living with a person with HIV.

Signs & Symptoms

The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. Symptoms may last a few weeks or you may not have symptoms for HIV.

About two to four weeks after getting HIV, a person may have a flu-like illness or symptoms such as:

  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Skin rash

As the immune system weakens over a period of years, a person may have:

  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Night sweats
  • Fever
  • Diarrhea
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Persistent yeast infections

    Get tested for HIV if you:

    • Have sex without using condoms
    • Share needles or equipment to take drugs
    • Have or have had a sexually transmitted infection
    • Are pregnant

    You need to wait 12 weeks or three months from your last possible exposure to HIV for an accurate test. This is called the window period. If you have HIV, your blood will show antibodies to HIV by the end of the 12-week window period.

    You can choose to use your name (nominal) for an HIV test or you can get a code number and have anonymous testing.

    You can have nominal or anonymous HIV testing by either an HIV blood test or a Rapid HIV test. A public health nurse will help you decide which option is best for you.

    HIV blood test

    • involves taking a sample of your blood and sending it to the lab
    • test results are ready in two weeks

    Rapid HIV testing

    • also known as Point of Care
    • available for clients that meet certain eligibility criteria
    • involves taking a finger prick blood sample
    • test results are ready in a few minutes

    You can get tested for HIV using your name (nominal) at your doctor's office or walk-in clinics. Sexual Health Clinics provide anonymous testing, testing using your name and rapid HIV testing.


    There is no cure for HIV or AIDS, but there are treatments that help control the virus.

    • Many people with HIV continue to lead healthy lives for many years, if HIV is found and treated early.
    • Prevention is better than treating the virus.
    • Talk to an HIV specialist about when to start treatment and what treatment to take; get a referral to an HIV specialist from your doctor.

    HIV Testing Clinics

    Anonymous and rapid HIV test available. No health card or appointment needed. You must register 15 minutes before clinic closes to be seen.

    Club Hamilton (men only)
    401 Main Street West
    First Friday of the month 5 to 8 pm
    Second Friday of the month 12 noon to 3 pm
    Fourth Friday of the month 12 noon to 3 pm

    Downtown
    David Braley Health Science Centre
    100 Main Street West - 3rd Floor
    Wednesday 4:30 to 7 pm

    East End
    247 Centennial Parkway North Unit 8
    Monday 12:30 to 4 pm
    Thursday 3 to 6 pm
    Closed until further notice


    Mountain
    891 Upper James Unit 106
    Monday 3 to 6 pm
    Wednesday 12:30 to 4 pm
    Closed until further notice

    Notre Dame House (21 & under)
    14 Cannon Street West
    Monday 3:30 to 5:30 pm

    Street Health Clinic
    195 Ferguson Street North 2nd Floor
    Monday 9 am to 1 pm
    Wednesday 9 am to 1 pm
    ​Friday 9 am to 1 pm


    The AIDS Network
    140 King Street East Unit 101
    Second Tuesday/month 5 to 8 pm (men only)
    Third Tuesday/month 5 to 8 pm (women only)
    Last Wednesday/month 1 to 4 pm (anyone)

    The VAN Nursing Hours
    Call or Text 905-317-9966
    Tuesday 2:30 to 6 pm

    Waterdown
    315 Dundas Street East - 2nd Floor
    Tuesday 3 to 6 pm
    Closed until further notice

    • Use a condom every time from start to finish for oral, vaginal and anal sex. Keep a condom with you and learn how to use it correctly.
    • Do not have sex.
    • Talk to your sexual partner about their sexual and drug use history and ask your partner to be tested.
    • Get tested for sexually transmitted infections. Your chance of getting HIV goes up if you already have a sexually transmitted infection.
    • If you are diagnosed with HIV and are infected with another sexually transmitted infection, you are at a greater risk of passing HIV on to your partner.
    • If you inject drugs, use a needle syringe program to get free, sterile needles such as the Van Needle Syringe program.
    • Pre Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) - is the daily use of oral HIV medications by an HIV-negative person who is at high risk of HIV infection. There is a cost. PrEP can help prevent people getting infected with HIV. Consistent condom use and regular STI testing should be used alongside PrEP. For more information and where to access it in Hamilton, go to Hamilton PrEP Clinic. An online HIV PrEP clinic is also available if you can’t attend a clinic in person at www.prepclinic.ca.
    • Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) - Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) involves 28 days of oral HIV medications starting as soon as possible within 72 hours after an HIV exposure. PEP may be given after an accidental exposure that occurs at work (e.g., health care) or may be given after sexual and injection drug use exposures.  To access PEP in the Hamilton area, go to your nearest hospital emergency room. There is a cost.

    Additional resources

    The AIDS Network CATIE - Canada's source for HIV & Hepatitis C Information Special Immunology Services Clinic - Hamilton Health Sciences HIV Testing during prenatal screening - Ontario.ca HIV & AIDS - Sexual Health Ontario Hamilton PrEP Clinic Locate a PrEP clinic in Ontario

    What is it?

    Hepatitis pronounced (hep-ah-TY-tiss) means inflammation of the liver. The liver can become inflamed or damaged by alcohol, toxins, foods, medicines or by viruses like hepatitis A, hepatitis B or hepatitis C

    Most people who have hepatitis do not feel sick, until their liver gets very damaged or scarred (cirrhosis). Liver cirrhosis can make the liver stop working, this is called liver failure.

    Hepatitis A, B and C can cause serious liver damage, including liver cancer.

    What is hepatitis A?

    Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. Hepatitis A is often spread when someone eats food or drinks water that contains the hepatitis A virus. The food or water becomes contaminated when it comes in contact with the feces from an infected person. This can happen when:

    • A person with hepatitis A does not wash their hands properly after using the bathroom 
    • Drinking water is contaminated with sewage
    • Untreated water is used on crops

    Hepatitis A is found in the blood and stool of someone who is infected. It can be spread from person to person by sexual contact, contact with feces, blood transfusions or sharing needles.

    There is a vaccine to protect you against hepatitis A.

    Most people who get hepatitis A get better on their own and do not have long-term liver damage. But, people with chronic sicknesses like hepatitis C, hepatitis B, or HIV are at risk of getting very sick from hepatitis A. 

    How do you get hepatitis A

    You are at risk of getting hepatitis A if you:

    • Eat or drink unsafe food or water
    • Travel internationally to high risk areas.
    • Have a sexual partner who has hepatitis A
    • Are a man who has sex with men
    • Share supplies for using street drugs

    Many people who become infected with hepatitis A do not feel sick or have symptoms. If you do get sick with hepatitis A, you may have some or all of these symptoms:

    • Yellow skin or eyes
    • Upset stomach
    • Dark urine or light-coloured stools
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Fever
    • Joint pain
    • Feel tired
    • Not feel hungry 

    Even if you don’t feel sick, you can still have the virus and spread it to others.

    How do you prevent hepatitis A?

    There is a vaccine for hepatitis A. To learn more about vaccination see the ‘where can I get a hepatitis A vaccine in Hamilton?’ section below.

    You can reduce your risk of getting or spreading hepatitis A by:

    • Getting a hepatitis A vaccine
    • Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using alcohol-based hand rub with 60-90% alcohol before preparing or eating food and after using the washroom and changing diapers. Please note that 70% alcohol-based hand rub is needed to kill norovirus.
    • Not preparing food and beverages for others if you are sick
    • Following these tips when travelling to countries where hepatitis A is present
      • Ask for no ice cubes in your drink
      • Peel your own raw fruit and vegetables
      • Drink water from a safe supply (bottled, boiled, etc.)
      • Only eat foods that are well-cooked
    • Practicing safer sex
    • Never sharing needles or other supplies for using street drugs (cookers, pipes etc..)

    Where can I get a hepatitis A vaccine in Hamilton?

    You can get the hepatitis A vaccine for FREE in Ontario if you:

    • Use injection drugs
    • Have a chronic liver disease (hepatitis B or hepatitis C)
    • Are a man who has sex with men

    Hepatitis A and B are common in many countries. If you are travelling, talk to your doctor about the hepatitis A and B vaccines.  

    Ask about getting vaccinated by calling or visiting:

    • Your family Doctor
    • A travel Clinic
    • City of Hamilton’s Sexual Health Clinics at 905-528-5894
    • City of Hamilton’s Street Health Clinic

    What is hepatitis B?

    Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. You can have Hepatitis B for a short time (acute) or for a long time (chronic). Chronic hepatitis B can lead to serious liver damage, including liver cancer. 

    There is a vaccine to protect you against hepatitis B.

    How do you get hepatitis B?

    You can get hepatitis B from contact with blood, semen, or vaginal fluid of someone who has the virus.

    You may have hepatitis B if you:

    • Were born to a person who has hepatitis B
    • Lived in or were born in a region where hepatitis B is common  
    • Had sex without a condom
    • Shared sex toys
    • Shared needles and supplies for using street drugs (even once)
    • Had tattoos, piercings, manicures, pedicures or medical procedures that were done with poorly cleaned equipment
    • Shared personal care items (tooth brushes, nail clippers, razors, etc.).
    • Had a blood transfusion in Canada before 1970.

    The hepatitis B virus can live for seven days on objects like needles, razors, syringes, or sex toys.

    Many people who become infected with hepatitis B do not feel sick or have symptoms. If you do get sick with hepatitis B, you may have some or all of these symptoms:

    • Yellow skin or eyes
    • Abdominal pain
    • Dark urine
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Joint pain
    • Feel tired
    • Not feel hungry 

    Even if you don’t feel sick, you can still have the virus and spread it to others.

    How do you prevent hepatitis B?

    You can reduce your risk of getting or spreading hepatitis B by:

    • Getting a hepatitis B vaccine
    • Not sharing personal care items (razors, scissors, toothbrushes or nail clippers)
    • Never sharing needles or other supplies for using street drugs (cookers, pipes etc..)
    • Wearing latex gloves when you may come in contact with someone else’s blood
    • Getting tattoos or piercings at licensed establishment. If you are unsure if a location is licensed, ask to see their last inspection results. Inspection results are also posted online
    • Practicing safer sex
    • Covering open sores or breaks in your skin

    Where can I get a hepatitis B vaccine in Hamilton?

    The hepatitis B vaccine is FREE for people at high risk of getting hepatitis B and for school-aged children in grades 7 and 8.

    You can be vaccinated against hepatitis B for FREE if you:

    • Have multiple sex partners
    • Are a man who has sex with men
    • Use intravenous drugs
    • Have chronic liver disease, including hepatitis C
    • Have a history of a sexually transmitted disease
    • Are a household or sexual contact of someone who has hepatitis B
    • Are on renal dialysis or have a disease needing blood products       
    • Had a needle stick injury in a non-health care setting
    • Are waiting for a liver transplant
    • Are a child under 7 years old whose family has come from a country where there is a high risk of hepatitis B
    • Are an infant born to a hepatitis B positive person

    Hepatitis A and B are common in many countries. If you are travelling, talk to your doctor about the hepatitis A and B vaccines.  

    If you have been diagnosed with hepatitis B, it is important that you protect your liver from other viral hepatitis infections. People who have viral hepatitis can get FREE vaccines to prevent other diseases like pneumonia or hepatitis A. If you have a hepatitis infection talk to your doctor about what vaccines are right for you.

    Ask about getting vaccinated by calling or visiting:

    • Your family doctor
    • A walk-in clinic
    • A travel clinic
    • City of Hamilton’s Sexual Health Clinics at 905-528-5894
    • City of Hamilton’s Street Health Clinic

    Where can I get tested for hepatitis B in Hamilton?

    If you think you might have hepatitis B, get tested. It is important to get tested if you were born in, travelled to, or lived in a region that has many hepatitis B infections and do not have a hepatitis B vaccine. Regions that have high numbers of Hepatitis B include:

    • Southern and Eastern Europe
    • South and Central America
    • Africa and the Middle East
    • Asia

    Ask to be tested for hepatitis B at:

    • Your doctor’s office
    • A walk-in clinic
    • City of Hamilton Street Health Clinics
    • The student health facility at your college or university

    Where can I get treatment for hepatitis B in Hamilton?

    Medicine is available for people who have chronic hepatitis B. Not every person with hepatitis B needs medicine. Medicines to treat hepatitis B cannot cure you, but they can help stop damage to your liver.

    If you are at risk for hepatitis B, your doctor may test you for other infections like hepatitis C.

    To talk about treatment:

    • Call your doctor or nurse who can refer you to a specialist.
    • Visit Liver Care Canada, or call Hamilton Public Health at 905-546-2063

    Every hour, at least 1 person is infected with hepatitis C in Canada.
    Don’t wait. Get tested - It may save your life.

    What is hepatitis C?

    Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus. Hepatitis C is very common, and most people do not know they have the virus. You can have hepatitis C for a short time (acute) or for a long time (chronic). Chronic hepatitis C can lead to serious liver damage, including liver cancer.  

    How do you get hepatitis C?

    You can get hepatitis C from direct blood to blood contact with someone who has the virus.

    You may have hepatitis C if you:

    • Shared needles or supplies for using street drugs (even once)
    • Had tattoos, piercings, manicures, pedicures or medical procedures that were done with poorly cleaned equipment
    • Shared personal care items (tooth brushes, nail clippers, razors, etc.)
    • Had sex without a condom with a partner infected with hepatitis C
    • Were born to a person who had hepatitis C
    • Had a blood transfusion in Canada before 1992
    • Were born in, travelled to, or lived in a region where hepatitis C infection is common, such as:
      • East Asia and Pacific
      • Eastern Europe and Central Asia
      • Latin America and the Caribbean
      • North Africa and the Middle East
      • Sub-Saharan Africa

    The hepatitis C virus can live outside the body for four days on objects like needles, razors, syringes, or nail clippers.

    How do you prevent hepatitis C?

    There is no vaccine to protect against hepatitis C, and you can get hepatitis C more than once or have more than 1 type of hepatitis C infection.

    You can reduce your risk of getting or spreading hepatitis C by:

    • Not sharing personal care items (razors, scissors, toothbrushes or nail clippers)
    • Never sharing needles or other supplies for using street drugs (cookers, pipes etc..)
    • Wearing latex gloves when you may come in contact with someone else’s blood
    • Getting tattoos or piercings at licensed establishments. If you are unsure if a location is licensed, ask to see their last inspection results. Inspection results are also posted online
    • Practicing safer sex
    • Covering open sores or breaks in your skin

    If you have been diagnosed with hepatitis C it is important that you protect your liver from other viral hepatitis infections. People who have viral hepatitis can get FREE vaccines for some other types of hepatitis such as hepatitis A or B and vaccines to prevent other diseases like pneumonia. If you have a hepatitis infection talk to your doctor about what vaccines are right for you.

    Get tested! It is the only way to know if you have hepatitis C.

    Most people with Hepatitis C have no symptoms. If you do get sick with hepatitis C you may have some or all of these symptoms:

    • A fever
    • Yellow skin or eyes
    • Abdominal pain
    • Dark urine
    • Feel tired
    • Not be hungry
    • An upset stomach

    Even if you don’t feel sick, you can still have the virus and spread it to others.

    Where can I get tested for hepatitis C in Hamilton?

    If you think you could have come in contact with hepatitis C, get tested. Getting tested early means you can start treatment sooner and stop the damage to your liver.

    Ask to be tested for hepatitis C at:

    • Your doctor’s office
    • A walk-in clinic
    • Shelter Health Hep C Team
    • City of Hamilton Street Health Clinics
    • The student health facility at your college or university

    Where can I get treatment for hepatitis C in Hamilton?

    Hepatitis C is considered a curable infection. You can get treatment for hepatitis C from a specialist or a clinic that specializes in hepatitis C. Chronic hepatitis C can be cured in 90% of people with medicine prescribed by a doctor. This means the virus won’t continue to damage your liver. Treatment can be as short as 8-12 weeks.

    Did you know that most medicine for chronic hepatitis C in Ontario is FREE if you qualify for the Ontario Drug Benefit program? Funding may also be available through your own private insurance or directly from the drug companies. Your hepatitis treatment team will help you with getting the right medicine to treat your infection.

    To talk about treatment:

    • Call your doctor or nurse who can refer you to a specialist.
    • Visit Liver Care Canada, the Shelter Health Hep C Team, or call Hamilton Public Health at 905-546-2063 for help connecting to hepatitis C treatment.

    Additional resources

    CATIE - Canada's resource for HIV & Hepatitis C information Shelter Health Network Hepatitis C - Health Canada

    Non-reportable STIs

    Herpes
    HPV
    Molluscum Contagiosum

    What is it?

    Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the Herpes simplex virus.  There are two types of viruses that cause herpes: HSV-1 and HSV-2.

    • HSV 1 is the virus that causes cold sores on the lips, but can infect the genitals through oral sex.
    • HSV 2 is more common on the genitals.

    Genital herpes is a life-long infection, although symptoms may come and go. Some people who are infected with herpes have frequent symptom outbreaks and others rarely or never have an outbreak.

    You can get herpes by having direct contact with infected skin, sores or blisters.

    • Herpes is passed from the mouth or genitals of a person who has herpes during oral, vaginal or anal sex or fingering.
    • The virus is often spread just before or during a herpes outbreak. It can also be spread when an infected person does not have any symptoms.

    Signs & Symptoms

    Watch your body for changes.  Symptoms usually appear two to 21 days after contact with an infected person.

    For some people the symptoms of a herpes outbreak are mild and the person may not know they have herpes. Some signs and symptoms of genital herpes include:

    • Itching, tingling or burning skin at the site of the sore
    • Painful blisters or sores on or near the genitals, which may last a few days to weeks
    • Tender and enlarged lymph nodes

    After the first outbreak, further outbreaks are usually less severe and do not last as long. 

    If you think that you are having a herpes outbreak, you should see a doctor as soon as possible after your symptoms start. A doctor will:

    • Check your sores or blisters
    • Take a swab from the blister or sore to send to the lab to confirm if you have herpes

    If you want a blood test for herpes, there may be a cost to you.


    There is no cure for herpes. You can take antiviral medication each time you have an outbreak to help the sores heal faster.

    If you have a lot of outbreaks and the outbreaks interfere with your daily life, talk to your doctor about medication that can prevent outbreaks.

    A person who has herpes can pass the virus to you even when they are not having an outbreak. Here are some tips to protect yourself from herpes:

    • Choose not to have sex.
    • Be aware that herpes can be passed through vaginal, oral or anal sex or any time there is close skin-to-skin contact.
    • Use a condom or dental dam from start to finish every time you have sex.  A condom or dental dam only protects the skin covered by the condom.
    • Limit the number of sexual partners you have. The chance of getting asexually transmitted infection goes up with each new sexual partner.
    • Ask your sexual partner about their history of sexually transmitted infections before having vaginal, anal or oral sex.
    • Be aware of the symptoms of herpes and do not have sex or close skin-to-skin contact when herpes sores or other symptoms are present.
    • Be aware that herpes can be transmitted even when there are no symptoms.

    Pregnancy & Herpes

    Women who have genital herpes can get pregnant, have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

    • The risk of passing herpes on to a baby during delivery is highest when you get infected with herpes during pregnancy or if you have an outbreak at the time of delivery.
    • Talk to your doctor or midwife about how to manage herpes during your pregnancy.
    • In some cases, your doctor may decide you need antiviral treatment before delivery and a caesarean section to lower the risk of passing herpes to your baby during delivery.

    Additional resouces

    The Phoenix Association - Herpes Support Group Genital Herpes - Sexual Health Ontario

    What is it?

    HPV, also called Human Papillomavirus, is a virus that causes warts.  There are more than 100 types of HPV; about 40 types affect the genital area.  These types are divided into high-risk and low-risk.

    • Low-risk types cause warts in the genital or anal areas or in the mouth or throat.
    • High-risk types can cause pre-cancerous lesions that affect the cervix, anus, mouth, throat, penis, vagina or vulva.
    • About 75% of sexually active Canadians will have at least one genital HPV infection in their life. 

    You can get HPV by having direct contact with the infected skin of a person who has HPV.  HPV is passed through close skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal or oral sex. You can also get HPV even if there is no penetration during sex.

    Signs & Symptoms

    You may not have any visible symptoms of HPV; watch for changes in your body.

    • Genital warts are a sign of some types of HPV.
    • Warts can be single or clustered, flat or raised, hard or soft, as well as different or the same colour as the surrounding skin.
    • Warts can be found on the cervix, vulva, penis, scrotum, anus and/or the thighs of an infected person and on or around the mouth or in your throat.

    Some people may not have any signs or symptoms.

    There is no test for HPV or warts. If you notice any symptoms that concern you, visit your doctor, a walk-in clinic or a Sexual Health Clinic.

    • A doctor can diagnose warts by looking at the genital area.
    • If you are having sex, you should have regular physical exams by your doctor.
    • Women 21 years of age and older who are or have been sexually active should have Pap tests every three years.  A Pap test can find changes in a woman’s body caused by HPV. 

    There is no cure for HPV.

    More than 80% of HPV infections clear spontaneously within 18 months. 
    There is no way to know who will clear the infection and who will develop cancer or other health problems.

    Most genital warts are harmless but can be difficult to treat. Treatment can get rid of the visible warts, but they may come back over time.  Treatment for warts includes:

    • Self-applied prescription creams
    • Laser removal
    • Surgical removal
    • Cryotherapy—freezing warts with liquid nitrogen

    It may take more than one treatment session or type of treatment to get rid of the warts.

    • Choose not to have sex. Any time there is close skin-to-skin contact, there is a risk of getting HPV.
    • Be aware that HPV can be passed through vaginal, anal or oral sex any time there is close skin-to-skin contact.
    • Practice safer sex – use condoms or dental dams from start to finish every time you have sex. Condom or dental dams only protect the area of skin they cover.
    • Use a condom on sex toys and do not share sex toys.
    • Limit your number of sexual partners.  The chance of getting a sexually transmitted infection goes up with each new sexual partner.
    • Ask your partner about their history of sexually transmitted infections before having vaginal, anal or oral sex.
    • Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections with each new sexual partner.
    • Get the HPV vaccine through your family doctor or Public Health Services. This protects against some types of HPV.
    • Be aware of the symptoms of HPV and do not have close skin-to-skin or sexual contact when your partner has warts.
    • Be aware that HPV can be transmitted even when there are no symptoms.
    Dr. Jennifer Blake and Dr. Kim Alexander discuss how you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe from HPV and HPV related cancers. Video courtesy of The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada.

    Additional resources

    Cervical Screening - Cancer Care Ontario HPV/Genital Warts - Sexual Health Ontario

    What is it?

    Molluscum contagiosum is a skin infection caused by a virus. 

    Molluscum contagiosum is spread:

    • through skin-to-skin contact; this is the most common way to get it
    • through objects such as towels and clothing that come in contact with the lesions on an infected person
    • through swimming pools and sharing baths with an infected person 
    • by touching a lesion or bump on an infected person and then touching your body

    Signs & Symptoms

    • Lesions or bumps on thighs, buttocks, groin and lower abdomen
    • Lesions or bumps may occasionally appear on external genital and anal areas

    Lesions may start as small bumps, which develop over a period of several weeks into larger bumps.

    • The lesions can be flesh coloured, gray-white, yellow or pink.
    • The lesions can cause itching or tenderness.
    • Lesions can last from two weeks to four years, with an average of two years.

    People with HIV or others with weakened immune systems may develop more severe outbreaks.

    Visit your doctor if you have symptoms that concern you so that a diagnosis can be made. A doctor needs to see you to check what the lesions or bumps look like.


    Most lesions clear up on their own, but you can get them treated with a chemical or freezing, or they may be removed surgically by a doctor. 

    • Removal of lesions reduces spread to other people and other parts of your body.
    • Lesions may come back; it may be a new infection or a recurrence of the same infection.

    If you have molluscum contagiousum, avoid touching anything after you touch your lesions without washing your hands to prevent further spread.

    • Be aware that molluscum contagiosum can be spread by vaginal, anal or oral sex or any time there is close skin-to-skin contact.
    • Practice safer sex - use condoms or dental dams from start to finish every time you have sex. A condom or dental dam only protects the area of skin that they cover.
    • Use a condom on sex toys and do not share sex toys.
    • Limit your number of sexual partners. The chances of getting a sexually transmitted infection goes up with each new sexual partner.
    • Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections with each new sexual partner.
    • Be aware of the symptoms of molluscum contagiosum and do not have sex or intimate skin-to-skin contact with a partner when they have molluscum contagiosum symptoms.

    Additional resouces

    Molluscum Contagiosum - Center for Disease Control & Prevention

    How to prevent STIs

    If you choose to have sex, then using safer sex practices can protect you from sexually transmitted infections. 

    • Use a latex condom, from start to finish every time you have vaginal, anal and oral sex. Male or female condoms and dental dams prevent STIs if used correctly. 
      • Learn about male condoms
      • Learn about female condoms
    • Limit your number of sexual partners. The chance of getting an STI goes up with each new sexual partner.
    • Get tested for STIs regularly.
    • Get tested for STIs before each new sexual partner and ask your partner to get tested too.
    • Talk to your partner about their history of STIs before having sex.
    • Be familiar with symptoms of common STIs and avoid sexual contact if you or your partner have any symptoms.
    • Be aware that most people who have STIs do not have any symptoms.  The only way to know if you have an STI is to get tested.
    • Avoid douching (a liquid wash to clean the vagina).  Douches can get rid of the good bacteria that stop infections and can increase your risk of getting an STI.
    • If you choose to shave your pubic hair, avoid shaving this area if you have an active skin infection such as genital herpes sores, genital warts and/or molluscum contagiosum until the skin is healed and completely clear of symptoms for two weeks.  This prevents spreading the infection to other areas of your body.
    • Avoid having sex while using alcohol or drugs.  Drugs or alcohol can alter your decision making around having sex and safer sex practices. 
    Date modified
    July 23, 2022
    Was this information helpful?
    Home

    Footer (primary)

    • People & Programs
    • Home & Neighbourhood
    • Build, Invest & Grow
    • Things to Do
    • City & Council

    Footer (secondary)

    • Terms of Use
    • Privacy
    • Contact Us
    • Translate

    Subscribe to the City of Hamilton’s updates and notifications to stay informed on latest news, events, city services and more!

    Subscribe to e-Updates
    • Twitter
    • Facebook
    • Youtube
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn

    ©2022 City of Hamilton