The population, which had already lowered its guard before the pandemic, has become even more helpless in the face of sexually transmitted diseases, but HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia or syphilis are still there.
Syphilis
- What is syphilis? It is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria called Treponema pallidum.
- How can you catch syphilis? During sexual intercourse without a condom with an infected person, anal, vaginal or oral.
- How is it diagnosed? Through a blood test to detect antibodies against this infection. If you have an ulcer you will need to take a sample to make the diagnosis.
Gonorrhea
- What is gonorrhea or gonococcal infection? Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria called Neisseria Gonorrhoeae (or gonococcus).
- How to contract a gonococcal infection? During sexual intercourse without a condom with an infected person, anal, vaginal or oral.
- How is it diagnosed? A sample from the genital, pharyngeal or anal region is necessary to make the diagnosis, depending on sexual practices.
Clamidia
- What is Clamidia infection? It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. Without proper treatment, it can have serious health consequences.
- How can you get a chlamydia infection? You can catch it when you have sex without a condom with an infected person, during anal, vaginal or oral sex.
- How is it diagnosed? A sample from the genital area is needed to make the diagnosis. Sometimes a urinalysis may also be requested.
- Source: Ministry of Health.
More than 500 cases of gonorrhea, about 350 cases of syphilis and about 300 cases of chlamydia in Castilla-La Mancha in three years
According to data collected by the General Directorate of Public Health of Castilla-La Mancha, between 2017 and 2020 more than 500 cases of gonorrhea, around 350 cases of syphilis and around 300 cases of chlamydia were diagnosed in the region. increasing trend in the number of cases diagnosed annually.
The analysis of these data confirms that in the field of sexual health risky behavior persists, either through ignorance or through a false perception of safety, which makes it necessary to recall the importance of prevention in line with the objectives set by the “Horizon 2025” Health Plan.
Prevention measures
Within these prevention policies, the Health Service of Castilla-La Mancha has several lines of work, such as the screening program for cervical cancer to obtain an early diagnosis, vaccination against human papillomavirus in girls aged 12 or distribution in public hospitals in the region of pre-prophylaxis against exposure to HIV, prior medical prescription.
Against STIs, use a condom, the most effective protection”. With this campaign, the Ministry of Health of Castilla-La Mancha reminds that the best option against sexually transmitted diseases is not to be infected.
