On the rise

A NEW million-dollar campaign is driving the State Government’s latest attempt to stem the spread of sexually transmitted infections, which spiked in the Geelong region last year.

Reported gonorrhoea cases in Geelong surged more than 38 per cent, from 75 to 104 between 2016-17.

Barwon South West region also saw a surge in infections. Gonorrhoea cases rose 41 per cent in 12 months, according to Department of Health and Human Service data.

The statewide package, launched to mark the state’s first ever STI Testing Week, includes a $760,000 Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) catchup vaccination program to be delivered through sexual health clinics. The program aims to stop the spread of HPV-related cancers and disease among men in same-sex relationships.

Geelong residents are being encouraged to visit their doctor to get tested and treated this month, in a bid to reduce a statewide surge in STIs including gonorrhoea, syphilis and chlamydia, and bloodborne viruses.

Barwon Health infectious diseases director Eugene Athan told the Geelong Advertiser in January his team had noticed a rise in STIs and a disturbing drop in condom use.

“Young people generally feel as though they’re not at risk, and as a result they generally don’t take as many precautions,” Professor Athan said.

“People are more relaxed about sexual contact and risktaking behaviour,” he said.

Health Minister Jill Hennessy said people needed to understand the importance of taking precautions to prevent the transmission of STI.

“We can’t pretend STIs don’t happen because about one in six people will get an STI,” Ms Hennessy said.