Public health doctors in the Midwest are concerned about unprecedented levels of sexually transmitted infections, chlamydia and gonorrhea this year, reports RTE.
According to the latest data, Public Health HSE Mid West says it has already reported a record number of gonorrhea cases this year, and if current trends continue, record levels of chlamydia are also likely by the end of the year.
Last year, 798 cases of chlamydia were recorded – a 20% increase compared to 2019 – at the same time, 188 cases of gonorrhoea were also recorded – a 41% increase compared to 2019.
This is the highest number recorded for both infections in the past ten years.
There have been 664 cases of chlamydia and 274 cases of gonorrhea so far this year, reprots RTE.
Doctors appealed to residents of the region to protect their sexual health and take advantage of the test.
Their main messages are to use a condom correctly during intercourse, avoid sex if you have symptoms of an STI, and get tested if your partner has the disease.
Dr. Kenneth Beatty, an expert in public health medicine, described the growing number of cases as “an issue of public health concern”.
“For males and females, chlamydia and gonorrhoea can lead to painful inflammatory diseases, which can lead to infertility,” he said, reports RTE.
“An individual behavioural response is needed to protect ourselves. Wearing a condom correctly and availing of frequent testing is the most practical way to prevent future infections and to protect your sexual partners. Free contraception is available to 17-30-year-olds, and SH24 home testing is also free for everyone,” he added, reports RTE.
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