Sexually transmitted infections

Gonorrhoea, syphilis, chlamydia, HPV (human papillomavirus), HIV, genital herpes and Hepatitis B and C are sexually transmitted infections (STIs) for which the number of cases is increasing. This is why the Ministry of Health is launching a summer communication campaign this year, to reiterate the importance of using condoms and urge people engaging in frequent sexual activity to get themselves tested regularly.

Around 2/3 of sexually transmitted infections are contracted before the age of 25, with one in four new infections affecting adolescents. Over 20 sexually transmitted infections have been identified. The spread of STIs is a concern in all parts of the world and the risk of infection may vary significantly from one country to another. So, protection against these infections is more important today than ever.

As the majority of STIs have few or no directly visible symptoms, a person may be infected or contagious without knowing. STIs can have serious health consequences (infertility following a chlamydia infection, certain cancers following a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, AIDS following an HIV infection), if they are not detected early enough and treated.

Simple measures to protect yourself and avoid spreading infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are not fatal and there are treatments available. Simple measures will help you avoid them and stop them from spreading.

1. Use a condom every time you have sex and with every new partner if you do not know their HIV status.
2. Get tested for STIs and HIV regularly if you have multiple sexual partners.
3. Get tested for STIs and HIV if you want to stop using condoms with a regular sexual partner.
4. Always complete a course of treatment prescribed by your doctor.
5. Inform your partner(s) so they can also be tested and treated, if necessary.