The Ministry of Health of the Government of the Canary Islands, through the Directorate General of Public Health, is launching a campaign for the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies and other health risks on the occasion of the celebration of the 2026 carnival festivities, aimed, fundamentally, at young people, although also at the general population because carnival has no age
The campaign, whose slogan is ‘Do whatever you want…but if it sounds, use a condom’, is especially aimed at the young population of the Canary Islands. It is a transgressive, daring slogan that means "have fun, enjoy yourself, dress up, but whatever you do, act responsibly", to encourage preventive action, avoid sexually transmitted infections, and use condoms correctly.
This is the constant element in all the pieces of the campaign, whose dissemination will be totally digital due to being the usual communication channels among the young population. The objective is to reach this segment of the population so that they normalize the use of condoms, especially during carnival
The experts from the General Directorate of Public Health consider that the target audience of this initiative has its own communication channels that are essential to reach. Therefore, this year's campaign continues the line already started in previous editions of digital format and development in social networks, whose purpose is to awaken the interest of the public and their involvement, always in a positive way, avoiding excessively institutionalized messages, prohibitions or orders, as well as fear as an argument.
The campaign is developed entirely on social networks, Audio on demand, Video on demand, and Google ads, that is, a communication channel open to the public and, especially, to youth. It is about integrating the campaign into their world of the Internet, into their language, and into their tastes. Furthermore, the campaign will feature the dissemination of content through digital media websites
Health risk prevention in carnival
This year's campaign focuses on a series of health risk prevention messages that are important to remember about the correct use of condoms, avoiding the abusive consumption of alcohol and drugs, confronting sexual assaults, or avoiding driving if you have been drinking, among others.
Anyone can contract a sexually transmitted infection if they have unprotected sex
The condom correctly used is a very reliable method for preventing STIs and unwanted pregnancies.
It is advisable to use water-based gels to lubricate the condom, once it is on and to facilitate penetration.
There are different types of condoms: standard, latex-free (to reduce allergies), reinforced, and flavored, adapted to the type of sexual practice
To avoid problems with the use of the condom: acquire it in pharmacies, confirm that it is not expired, that it is approved (CE) and protect it from light and heat
Find out about the free condom distribution points in the carnival areas to avoid "last-minute situations".
Always carrying a condom with you is a good idea. If you use it, correctly, you decrease the risk of infections and the risk of pregnancy.
Unprotected sexual practices are sufficient reason to consult with health professionals before 72 hours (assessment of post-exposure prophylaxis or emergency contraception).
The influence of any toxic substance, alcohol and/or drugs, increases the probability of putting oneself at risk and not taking the necessary precautions
Watch at all times any type of food or drink and do not accept glasses from strangers or people you have just met. If you doubt it, discard it.
Public transport is a smart option, if you have been drinking, to get home.
Adopt an active attitude towards sexist aggressions, do not tolerate them, act and report these types of situations
Remember your right to say "NO". No one has the right to impose anything on you that you don't want. No is NO!
If you suffer a sexual assault, go to a hospital or a duty court and tell what happened to you to receive medical attention or contact 016
Condom distribution points during carnival
Before and during these carnival festivities, around 150,000 condoms have been distributed on all islands through island and local corporations (Youth Departments), NGOs and volunteer associations that have requested preventive material for distribution at the main carnival events.
