Know Your Status: Get Tested!

Editor — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:58:24 +0000

There has been an increase in HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) within the Territory. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has highlighted a critical advisory from the Ministry of Health regarding this troubling rise. This call to action is supported by the Family and Juvenile Unit of the RVIPF, who stress the urgency of the situation.

Alarmingly, the steady increase in infection rates puts children and young adults at heightened risk, as they are particularly vulnerable to these health threats. In response, the RVIPF urges parents to intensify their oversight of their children’s activities and, when necessary, ensure they are tested for STIs.

Moreover, the RVIPF issues a stern warning to the public about the severe legal consequences of knowingly engaging in unprotected sexual activity without disclosing a positive STI status. Such actions are deemed reckless and selfish, constituting serious criminal offences under Section 325 of the Criminal Code, Revised Edition 2013. Offenders could face a maximum prison sentence of up to fourteen years.

The message from both the Ministry of Health and the RVIPF is clear: prioritize your health and the well-being of those around you. Know your status – get tested today.

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WHO Reports Surge in Global Sexually Transmitted Infections

Editor — Thu, 23 May 2024 18:53:36 +0000

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a significant rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide, with over 1 million new infections occurring daily among adults aged 15-49.

A report published on May 21 highlighted a troubling increase in syphilis cases, which have surged from 7.1 million in 2020 to 8 million in 2022. This includes a worrying rise in congenital syphilis cases.

Additionally, the WHO has raised alarms about antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea with nine countries reporting heightened resistance to ceftriaxone, the last-line treatment for this infection.

The overall rise in STIs is exacerbated by inadequate screening and limited access to healthcare services, the WHO revealed.

“The rising incidence of syphilis raises major concerns,” says WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

“We have the tools required to end these epidemics as public health threats by 2030, but we now need to ensure that, in the context of an increasingly complex world, countries do all they can to achieve the ambitious targets they set themselves.”

In contrast, there has been positive news in the global fight against HIV. New HIV infections have decreased from 1.5 million in 2022 to 1.3 million, marking significant progress.

However, the WHO noted that certain populations, including men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, sex workers, transgender individuals, and those in prisons and other closed settings, continue to be disproportionately affected by HIV.

The report also highlighted advancements in expanding services for STIs, HIV, and hepatitis. Several countries have successfully eliminated mother-to-child transmission of HIV and/or syphilis.

To further reduce infection rates, the WHO recommended accelerating efforts to decriminalise and destigmatise those affected by STIs and other infections.

Strengthening primary prevention, diagnosis, and treatment is also key to raise awareness and improve outcomes for those affected by these conditions.

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Know Your Status: Get Tested!

WHO Reports Surge in Global Sexually Transmitted Infections