STI warning as experts predict ‘summer of love’
EXPERTS are expecting a ‘summer of love’ with the relaxation of restrictions on Monday which has been dubbed ‘Freedom Day’.
However it comes as new research has revealed the highest rates for different sexually transmitted infections in Rochdale and neighbouring boroughs.
The most common STI in Rochdale, is chlamydia, with a diagnosis rate of 321 per 100,000 people.
This compares to a rate of 242 in Bolton, 368 in Tameside and 256 in Stockport.
Manchester has the highest rate in the region, with 664 per 100,000 people.
The second most common STI in Rochdale is genital warts, with 77 new infections, closely followed by gonorrhea at 78 infections per 100,000 people. This is compared to 247 instances of gonorrhea in Manchester plus 154 diagnoses of genital warts per 100,000 people.
Nearby Bolton comes in at 59 diagnoses of gonorrhoea and 64 instances of genital warts.
Other figures in Rochdale show that there is a syphilis rate of 5.8, a herpes rate of 39, a new HIV rate of 7.9 and also an existing HIV rate of 2.2 per 100,000. All together, Rochdale’s new STI rate is 583 - higher than Bolton and Stockport.
Healthcare company aimed at men, From Mars, compiled the research.
Navin Khosla, Superintendent Pharmacist at From Mars, said: “We understand the importance of sexual health and why it’s vital we all have safe and enjoyable sex.
“We wanted to create the STI Calculator so that people across the UK could get a better understanding of the most prevalent STIS in their local area and how ‘at risk’ they are of catching one if safe sex isn’t abided by.
“It’s crucial we all have safe sex and use a form of protection which is best suited to our bodies.
“For men, it’s advised that a condom should always be used, regardless of whether your female partner is on the contraceptive pill or not.
“There are many forms of contraception for women and your GP is on hand to talk you through your best options, as well to help put your mind at ease.”
Rochdale Borough Council declined to comment on the figures.