New South Wales Health are urging people on the North Coast and throughout New South Wales to have their sexual health check up following a rise in syphilis infections on the Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers.
Syphilis is easily curable if detected but can cause serious health concerns if left untreated. Syphilis also doesn’t always have symptoms for those infected.
There has been a rise in the increase of syphilis notifications since January 2020, with more women becoming infected than previously.
All sexually active people, particularly those with multiple sexual partners or those who participate in unprotected casual sex, should have regular tests even if they are experiencing no symptoms.
Regular STI checks are needed to prevent passing the infection on and avoiding long-term health concerns.
Speak with your GP about testing and more information. Confidential, free STI testing is available at your GP clinic or local Sexual Health Clinics at Coffs Harbour, Kempsey or Port Macquarie.
For sexual health support and information, call the NSW Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624 (weekdays 9am to 5.30pm), go to www.shil.nsw.gov.au or visit NSW Health’s Play Safe website at https://playsafe.health.nsw.gov.au.