Chlamydia warning

Chlamydia warning

A large number of cases of the sexually transmitted infection chlamydia have been detected in Geelong residents in the past 12 months.

Victorian AIDS Council/Gay Men’s Health Centre health promotion manager Colin Batrouney said a rise in chlamydia cases in gay men hasn’t been seen in current surveillance data, however, he urged men having sex with multiple partners to get tested regularly.

“If you’re having sex with multiple partners it’s a good idea to be checked for STIs every three months,” Batrouney told the Star Observer.

Chlamydia infection is caused by bacteria which can cause infections in the urethra, throat or anus and can be transmitted by giving or receiving anal sex, or in the throat through oral sex.

Often the infection does not result in obvious symptoms, particularly in men.
“Basically condoms don’t really eliminate the risk for chlamydia but they can provide some protection,” Batrouney said.

“We also suggest washing your hands with soap and water after you have sex. That can also help prevent transmission, especially if people are having sex with multiple partners.”

For HIV-positive people, untreaded chlamydia means it may be easier to pass on HIV to other people. Treatment involves a course of antibiotics.

info: www.thedramadownunder.info

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