Public cautioned from engaging in risky sexual behaviour as STI infection rises

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The department of health in Gauteng has cautioned the public from engaging in risky sexual behaviour as sexual transmitted infections (STI) rises.

According to the department, a total of 167 109 males presented at public health facilities across the province and 67 400 (40%) were treated for Male Urethritis Syndrome(MUS) between April and December 2023.

The MUS data accurately reflects newly acquired STIs. Symptoms of MUS include discharge from the penis and burning urination.

If left untreated complications can include pain and swelling of the testes. Gonorrhoeae and chlamydia are the most predominant cause of MUS in South Africa.

Health and Wellness MEC, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko urged people that are sexually active to use condoms which they can access for free at their local healthcare centres to protect themselves against STIs and HIV.

Sister Rose Sukubala the Adolescent and Youth Friendly Service (AYFS) champion at Levai Mbatha CHC encourages the public to abstain, avoid having multiple sexual partners and to make use of condoms as a preventative measure against STIs #AsibeHealthyGP pic.twitter.com/LSmyMguXnH

— Gauteng Health (@GautengHealth) February 12, 2024

“Our clinics provide free condoms and STI and HIV infection, 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,” Nkomo-Ralehoko emphasised. 

She encouraged women to start early antenatal care as soon as they realise that they are pregnant for thorough screening of any STI, and appropriate and timely treatment for those who test positive.

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The MEC stated that between April and December 2023, 1 255 out of 66 377 pregnant woman who presented at facilities for antenatal care for the first time tested positive for syphilis.

Nkomo-Ralehoko added; “If left untreated in pregnant women, syphilis can have adverse outcomes for the growing baby as well as increase morbidity in the mother. It can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy (congenital syphilis), leading to stillbirths, health complications, congenital deformities and even infant death.”