Rise in chlamydia testing

THE number of young people in the Great Yarmouth and Waveney areas being tested for the sexually transmitted infection Chlamydia has risen sharply over the last two years.

THE number of young people in the Great Yarmouth and Waveney areas being tested for the sexually transmitted infection Chlamydia has risen sharply over the last two years.

But despite the steep rise from 2.6pc to 14.7pc, NHS Yarmouth and Waveney still needs more young people to take the opportunity to be screened for Chlamydia to help meet government targets.

Although the trust's free screening programme has been a success in raising the number of tests from 2006 to 2008, the organisation needs to reach the 25pc target of people aged 15-24 accepting or taking a test.

Tests could prevent people becoming infertile due to Chlamydia, which is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the country- with one in 12 young people testing positive for it.

Allison Chaplin, commissioning manger for sexual health, said: “Wee are delighted more people are taking up the screening, but we still want to encourage others to follow their lead.

“It is important to stress that Chlamydia can be quickly and easily treated with antibiotics so we would encourage young people to take up the free confidential screening.”

Screening and treatment for Chlamydia is available from 200 health sites across Norfolk and Waveney. Alternatively a free test kit can be sent out by texting screen to 80010, e-mailing cso@norfolk.nhs.uk or calling 01603 221801.