[Mobile screening unit for HIV and STI among seasonal workers in the ski resorts of Savoy, France: interest and perspectives].
Seasonal workers in 11 Savoy ski resorts were screened for HIV and sexually transmitted infections by a special mobile unit set up by the Chambery hospital. The service is free and anonymous. In order to evaluate this initiative, information was collected via a survey conducted of the 539 people who used the services of the mobile unit between February 1st and April 1st 2007 through the use of a questionnaire. In addition, sixty-three interviews were conducted with local, regional and national partners. Ninety-two percent of the clients were seasonal workers and their main request (95%) was for HIV and STI testing. None tested positive for HIV, and only three had an STI. This unit is the main entry point into the health system for this population. The results of the evaluation report support the recommendation for the mobile unit to be positioned as an important social focal point for seasonal workers, providing the prevention for high-risk behaviors, closely linked to the structures of "seasonal workers homes" and employing seasonal workers peer educators.
Médecin inspecteur de santé publique, DDASS de la Savoie.
Bruno
B
Cojan
Serge
S
Fanello
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005602:France; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008952:Mobile Health Units; D016272:Occupational Health; D012621:Seasons; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D012865:Skiing; D055815:Young Adult