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STI cases on the rise in Gauteng, call for safe sex

todayFebruary 13, 2024 129

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The Gauteng Health Department has cautioned members of the public against risky sexual behaviours amid the rising Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) cases in the province.
In a statement marking February as the Sexual and Reproductive Health awareness month, the department says Sandton, Braamfontein, Germiston, Katlehong and Vosloorus are among areas that have seen a spike STIs.
The Department’s Motaletale Modiba says tertiary students and high-risk individuals, such as sex workers and people who inject themselves with drugs, are among patients healthcare professionals have been treating for the infections in Sandton and the Joburg inner-city. Informal settlements, truck stops and hostels are among problem areas.
According to Gauteng Health, at least 167 109 men were infected with Male Urethritis Syndrome between April and December 2023.
Males who may be concerned about Male Urethritis Syndrome should look out for symptoms such as discharge from the penis and burning urination.
Here are a number of prevention interventions against STIs:
– Consistent use of male and female condoms
– Encouraging the reduction in the number of sexual partners
–  Increased uptake of HIV counselling and testing
– STI screening
– Promotion of sexual wellbeing
Modiba has reiterated the call for young people to use public health facilities across the country as they provide free condoms, STI and HIV prevention as well as testing and treatment services.
“We should not let STIs go untreated as they increase the risk of HIV infection and transmission which will hamper the province’s goal to reduce new HIV infections by 2030.”
The department has also revealed that 1 255 out of 66 377 pregnant women tested positive for Syphilis between April and December last year.

Written by: Lindiwe Mpanza

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