THE MONTH IN A MINUTE.

SEXUAL HEALTH A sharp rise in Shigella, an infection of the intestines often caused by rimming, is reported among gay men in the US. The American LGBT Foundation urges extra care and hygiene.

HIV HEALTH Australian health professionals launch a campaign to raise awareness that gay men living with HIV who are on effective treatment cannot pass on the virus. It comes as extensive research shows that even with condomless sex, HIV cannot be transmitted if the HIVpositive man has an undetectable viral load, which is achieved while on effective medication.

SOCIAL Grindr hints at a September launch for a “nicer” alternative to its hook-up app, named Kindr, in response to suggestions the app should do more to combat bullying and racism and promote more pleasant interaction.

SECOND CLASS GAY A gay couple is asked to move seats on an Alaska Airlines flight to make way for a heterosexual couple, causing an online backlash. David Cooley, who owns West Hollywood bar The Abbey, claims he and his partner were discriminated against. The airline has apologised and launched an investigation.

SEX VS SCIENCE New scientific research suggests that gay men with older brothers are more likely to be bottoms. US and Canadian researchers based the study on the “Fraternal birth order effect”. It is thought to affect sexual preference, although the science behind this still baffles the boffins.

VIOLENCE Almost half of gay men have experienced violence in a relationship, according to a new study. US researchers say that 46 per cent of participants reported suffering sexual or emotional abuse from a partner. Activists are calling for more help to become available.

TRUMP Gay actor Sir Ian McKellen launches an attack on Donald Trump, calling him “illiterate” and “inadequate”. The Lord Of The Rings and X-Men star made the comments during an interview with CNN.

POP Eighties icon Boy George announces that his group, Culture Club, will release new music later this year. Let Somebody Love You will be their first single in two decades. An album, Life, will follow.

MADONNA The long-absent Queen Of Pop confirms she’ll release a new album this year. She tells Vogue Italia that it’s inspired by her time living in Lisbon, Portugal.