"Their consequences are not insignificant"

This is an alert to be taken into account in in the middle of the summer, which is a time often conducive to bad. According to a study published by Public Health France on Wednesday, badually transmitted infections (STIs), which are transmitted mainly during unprotected bad, have increased sharply in recent years. Florence Lot, head of the HIV-AIDS IST Unit at Public Health France, explains to 20 Minutes the reason for this recrudescence and the measures to be taken to stop it.

What badually transmitted infections are increasing

The ones we are watching for are chlamydia and gonococcal infections and the
syphilis. They have been increasing since the beginning of the 2000s with a peak of increase between 2012 and 2016. The data shows that in 2016, the number of diagnoses of Chlamydia and gonococcal infection was multiplied by 3 compared to the estimates of 2012. Diagnosis rates are similar to those seen in
United Kingdom.

Who are the audiences most affected by them?

Young people aged 15-24 remain particularly affected. A predominance of chlamydia infection is found in women, particularly in Ile-de-France and the Overseas Departments. With regard to gonorrhea infections, men are more affected with the exception of DOMs where there is a predominance of gonorrhea in women.

Why is there such an increase?

There are several reasons for this: firstly, the screening activity is more important than before the 2000s and the sensitivity of the tests used has improved. Moreover, in 9 out of 10 cases, these infections are not accompanied by symptoms. So the affected people are not treated, which promotes the circulation of STIs. The multiplicity of badual partners also plays into the spread of these STIs. Moreover, if the condom is used mbadively during the first badual intercourse, it is not systematically afterwards

What are the consequences for health if the patient is not treated?

They are not innocuous. In the long run, a person carrying such a bacterium may experience chronic pelvic pain, this can also weaken the mucous membranes and lead to an increased risk of HIV infection. The mother can also transmit this bacteria to her child. Finally, this can lead to sterility

What measures must be taken to avoid getting contaminated?

First of all, it should be remembered that condoms are the only guarantee against STIs. We must also recommend to young people who have decided to do without a condom because they have a stable relationship, to be tested and their partner. This test is performed by badl sampling in women and by a urine test in men. Screening can be done by a doctor, a gynecologist or a dermatologist-venerologist. Or free of charge at the free information, screening and diagnostic centers (CeGGID) and planning or family education centers. As for antibiotic treatment, it is fast and effective.

Are PrEP people (a preventative HIV treatment for people who have difficulty using condoms) more likely to be affected by STIs?

No because they are much more monitored and carry out screening tests every 3 months. Which limits the risks of propagation of STIs