A fourfold spike in numbers of young people in Tayside with gonorrhoea has prompted NHS Tayside to launch an awareness campaign.
The sexually transmitted disease is preventable and people are being warned to wear a condom. A poster blitz in pubs, clubs and other places frequented by young people advises them on protecting themselves and where to get help if they have symptoms.
Senior health specialist Richard McIntosh said the number of people diagnosed with the infection is not large but the increase was a cause for concern.
“We would normally see three or four cases a month but that rose to around 12,” he said. “The biggest rise was in January/February. We cannot be complacent although the numbers are not high, they are a lot higher than last year so obviously people are still not practising safe sex, even though free condoms are widely available.”
Cases were most prevalent in men and women aged 21 to 25. He said the infection could be successfully treated with antibiotics and anyone with symptoms should go to their GP or Ninewells specialist service. Left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious long-term health problems and infertility. If pregnant, it can lead to premature birth.
STIs (sexually transmitted infections) in general are on the increase in Tayside and across the UK.
“Reducing STIs remains a priority for NHS Tayside,” said Mr McIntosh. “Unprotected sex can lead to high levels of STIs and also to unintended pregnancy. We want to encourage young people to understand the importance of contraception and the need to practice safer sex.
“Our public health team is asking anyone, especially when under 25, who has had an unusual discharge from the penis or vagina or pain when urinating, to contact the Tayside sexual and reproductive health service for an STI test,” he said.
“A self-testing kit is available which is easy and also tests for chlamydia. Another option is to visit your GP if you have any symptoms.”Anyone needing advice can call the Sexual Health Helpline on 0800 567 123 or Sexwise (for under 18s) on 0800 28 29 30.