Know your status – health MEC

THE Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) or Condom Week campaign was launched by the department of health and social development during an event in Jane Furse on Monday.

STI or Condom Week is aimed at creating more awareness about the dangers of STIs and further educates people about responsible sexual behaviour and the promotion of safer sexual practises.

The campaign also aims to reduce the spread of STIs, as well as HIV/aids. The fear of being stigmatised is one of the many reasons why people are reluctant to seek medical treatment for STIs, according to health and social development communications manager, Macks Lesufi.

The department has mobilised other important stakeholders that play a meaningful role such as Aurum, Agri Aid, FPD and Love Life to be part of the campaign and further strengthen the message of government to encourage people to test and know their status.

The campaign will run from February 10 to 14 and the department will properly use this period to interact with communities using various platforms to spread the message.

Activities will include TB screenings, condom distributions, health talks, visits to FET colleges and taxi ranks, and will be conducted by health officials who will also advise and encourage citizens to know their status and practise safe sex.

“Citizens are encouraged to get tested twice a year to know their status. We have realised that men are afraid to get tested and we would like to encourage them to know their status. Some STIs are curable, so STI sufferers should visit health institutions and receive medications.

“We will also soon be launching a campaign that will focus on teenagers and safe sex or abstinence,” Lesufi said.