The Brazilian government is known for being one of the best in Latin America in terms of public health informational campaigns, as well as a providing important health care goods free of charge, including contraceptives and HIV medication.
Last week, the Ministry of Public Health unveiled a new campaign called “Muito prazer: sexo sem DST.” In an effort to expand awareness of STDs and to encourage people to get tested for them, the AIDS section of the Ministry came up with a new project: STD e-cards.
The e-cards, which can be sent from the government website, can be sent anonymously or with a real name. The card reads: “Hi! I don’t know if this is the best way to tell you, but I found out I have an STD. I went to a clinic, found a doctor, and I’m receiving treatment. I think you should do the same.”
Officials from the Ministry hope the campaign will help put a spotlight on these diseases (especially HIV) and help people to seek treatment for them, to help prevent the disease from spreading.
