THE fact that Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) are silently increasing in rural communities, youths are encouraged to utilize the Voluntary Confidential Counselling Testing Clinics.
Malaita provincial health director Dr Henry Kako stated this at the handing over of VCCT clinic to Fauabu Hospital last week.
He said the VCCT clinic is important and youths must make use of it to know their health status.
He said late hour’s activities and other negative social activities that lure youth are major contributing factors to the spread of STI.
He said the VCCT clinic is established for young people to use as a place to check for their medical status regarding STI.
“It is important to get to know your own body, and to know what is normal and healthy for you and what is not.
“When something seems different, get it checked out. Keep in mind that your body won’t always show signs and symptoms, and that’s why we recommend regular STI testing for anyone who is sexually active whether or not they have any symptoms.”
“According to latest report Solomon Islands has recorded 30 confirmed HIV cases.” Dr Kako said.
However, some common STIs (i.e., Chlamydia and gonorrhoea) can show no symptoms. This is why VCCT clinics offer testing to all our clients for Chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
Here are Signs and symptoms:
Sores or blisters on the genitals on or around the anus, or mouth, Irregular growths (warts) in genital area, Vaginal or penile discharge (may be unusual-smelling or discoloured),Genital itching, Pain with urination or having a bowel movement, Pain during intercourse, Vaginal bleeding or spotting after sexual intercourse, lower abdominal pain, pain, rash or swelling of glands in groin area.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
In Auki
