Cape Town – The Gauteng Department of Health has issued a warning due to a notable increase in Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV infections in the province.
Between April and December 2023, 167,109 males sought treatment, with 40% treated for Male Urethritis Syndrome (MUS), indicating newly acquired STIs, the department said in a media statement released on Sunday.
MUS symptoms include penile discharge and painful urination, with an escalation from 12% in 2020 to 15% in 2023.
High-risk areas with cultural barriers to healthcare access are targeted for intervention.
The department advocates prevention measures, including consistent condom use, HIV testing, counseling, and STI screening.
MEDIA STATEMENT || GAUTENG HEALTH CAUTIONS THE PUBLIC FROM ENGAGING IN RISKY SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR AS STI INFECTION RISES pic.twitter.com/HW96TodWDq
— Gauteng Health (@GautengHealth) February 11, 2024
MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has emphasised free condom use, identifies behavioural factors contributing to MUS, and urges early antenatal care for pregnant women to address STIs.
“In terms of the high MUS incidence recorded in the mentioned areas we have identified behavioural factors that contribute to the high Male Urethritis Syndrome. The contributory factors include high rates of unsafe behaviour such as non-use of condoms whilst engaging in vaginal or anal sex, multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, high levels of substance use and cultural norms,“ said Nkomo-Ralehoko
Concerns about increasing female use of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) without consistent condom use are noted, calling for greater male engagement in PrEP initiatives for comprehensive protection, the department said.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
