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New campaign to combat worrying Chlamydia increase
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and it’s on the increase. In the Hunter New England Health region the number of reported cases has more than doubled over the past five years.
In 2007 there were 1,751 reported cases of Chlamydia, while in 2006 there were 1857 cases. This is compared to 402 cases in 1999.
Of particular concern is the growing incidence of Chlamydia in young people aged 15 to 25 years, with a 71 per cent increase in the number of reported cases in this age group between 2003 - 2007.
Given these worrying trends Hunter New England Health is kicking off a campaign in April to encourage all sexually active young people to contact their local sexual health clinic, or GP to get tested for Chlamydia.
The campaign aims to raise awareness about the increasing incidence of Chlamydia and educate people as to just how easy it is to get tested.
Hunter New England Health Public Health Physician Dr Tony Merritt said many people with a Chlamydia infection will not have any symptoms and may unwittingly pass the infection onto their partners.
“Too many people are infecting their partners unknowingly and the only way to ensure that you do not have an STI such as chlamydia is to have a sexual health check at your doctor or to visit your local sexual health clinic,” Dr Merritt said.
"The test for Chlamydia is very simple – it’s just a urine sample. Treatment is also easy, usually involving just a single antibiotic tablet.
"Many sexually active people are aware they should have a sexual health check but may find the prospect daunting,” said Dr Merritt.
A sexual health check is a simple process and can be arranged with a GP or through the local sexual health clinic.
Condoms offer good protection against STIs and are an important part of practising safe sex.
“There is a high awareness about the benefits of condom use but it can be a very different story when it comes time to put that knowledge into practice. People often don't consider themselves at risk or find it embarrassing to talk about using a condom with their partner,” Dr Merritt said.
“The message is simple. If you are sexually active, it is essential to use condoms and have regular sexual health tests at your GP or sexual health clinic so that you know you’re STI free,” Dr Merritt said.
The Hunter New England Health campaign includes a television community service announcement, posters in youth venues and GP surgeries, and back of toilet door advertising in entertainment venues, universities and TAFEs.
Contact: Tanya Carlyle
Phone: (02) 4985 5522
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