Brandon residents can access free HIV and sexually transmitted infection testing at several community events this June as Manitoba’s declared public health emergency for HIV continues. Prairie Mountain Health has organized drop-in testing at three locations across the city to make getting checked easier and more accessible.
Manitoba’s HIV situation has grown severe. On May 7, 2026, the province declared its first public health emergency for HIV after cases more than tripled from 90 in 2019 to 328 in 2025. The provincial rate of 19.5 cases per 100,000 people is more than three-and-a-half times the national rate. The Prairie Mountain Health region, which includes Brandon, has the highest per capita HIV rates in Manitoba.
Testing events kick off on June 13 at Pride in the Park, hosted by Brandon Pride at the Discovery Centre. A drop-in clinic will run June 24 at Princess Park, and monthly sessions continue at the Sexual Wellness Lodge at the Brandon Friendship Centre on 9th Street, with the next one on June 5. All testing is free and confidential.
Early diagnosis is key because it connects people to treatment and prevention medications like PrEP, which the province has invested over $8 million into since 2023 to provide at no cost. Health officials stress that HIV can affect anyone and that the region’s high rates make testing a critical step for community health.
Find a full list of events and times on the Prairie Mountain Health website.
