Young people in Devon urged to use protection as STI rates remain high
As Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) remain high among young people, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) South West is advising young people and students starting or returning to university to use condoms when having sex with new or casual partners.
The most recent data from UKHSA shows that in 2023 in 15- to 24-year-olds in the South West, there were:
9,476 cases of chlamydia (a decrease of 6.8% from 10,167 cases in 2022)
2,403 cases of gonorrhoea (an increase of 8.7% from 2,211 cases in 2022)
827 cases of herpes (a decrease of 10% from 919 cases in 2022)
420 cases of genital warts (a decrease of 27.7% from 581 cases in 2022) and
51 cases of syphilis (an increase of 24.4% from 41 cases in 2022).
While this data does show an overall decrease (around 5%) in diagnoses in this age group (from 13,856 in 2022 to 13,177 in 2023), STIs remain high and young people are urged not to be complacent. These infections spread easily, and those aged 15 to 24 are especially at risk as they are more likely to have frequent partner changes.
READ MORE:Fight breaks out outside North Devon takeaway
READ MORE:Teenage boy rushed to hospital after falling from rope swing in Devon
While many STIs can be treated, untreated infections can lead to serious health issues. Chlamydia and gonorrhoea may cause infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease, while syphilis can result in severe, irreversible problems affecting the brain, heart, or nerves.
Mark McNally, South West sexual health facilitator at UKHSA, said: “If you’re having sex with someone new, or someone more casually, don’t forget to use a condom.
“With higher STI rates in young people, having sex without a condom can increase your chances of an infection like, chlamydia or gonorrhoea. Getting tested regularly will also help detect any infections quickly and protect your own and your partners health.”
Some people will have symptoms of an infection (such as a discharge, pain while urinating or an unusual rash or blisters) but many people do not show symptoms which means people often pass on STIs without realising it. Regular testing for STIs and HIV is essential – everyone should have an STI screen, including an HIV test, at least once a year if having condomless sex with new or casual partners.
Testing and treatment is free and confidential– including for students who have moved here from another country - and can be accessed through local sexual health clinics, university and college medical centres. Many sexual health services in England now offer free STI self-sampling kits for people who aren’t showing any symptoms or signs of an STI and would prefer a routine check-up in the comfort and privacy of their own home. If you notice any unusual symptoms, make sure to contact your local sexual health service and get tested.
Laura Domegan, head of nursing at Brook, said: "Starting university is always a good time for young people to consider their sexual health, with many of them moving away from home, meeting new people and taking part in all the fun that comes with starting a new college or university. This year it is particularly important, given the recent increase in diagnoses of several STIs, particularly among young people. Thankfully there are very simple steps everyone can take to look after themselves.
"Using condoms is one of the best ways to enjoy safer sex as they’re the only form of contraception that also protects against STIs. People should also get tested if they’ve had unprotected sex or started seeing a new partner. It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve had sex or how many sexual partners you’ve had, anyone can catch an STI. Many STIs do not have symptoms either, so testing is the only way to know if you have one or not.
"We would also encourage students to access their local sexual health services. They will be able to provide you with free condoms, contraception, and STI testing and treatment, as well as the confidential, non-judgement support you need to look after your sexual health. To find your nearest sexual health service visit : Sexual Health Clinic Near Me - Brook & NHS Services – Brook
UKHSA is also reminding students to ensure they are up to date with their free NHS vaccines, including MMR, MenACWY and the HPV vaccine. The MenACWY jab can be a lifesaver protecting against some types of meningitis and the HPV vaccine, as well as protecting against some forms of cancer, also reduces the risk of genital warts. Some students will also be eligible for an mpox vaccine, hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis A vaccine.