Generally, when people think they may have caught a sexually transmitted disease (STD), they go to have an STD test at their doctor’s surgery or a specialist medical centre. However, one expert has suggested that embarrassment over Chlamydia has put some individuals off having such assessments.
Writing on WalesOnline, Raj Aggarwal, who runs Central Pharmacy and is a board member of the National Pharmacy Association and Community Pharmacy Wales, suggested that the reluctance among some to have a Chlamydia test is leading to a rise in prevalence of the condition.
He stated: “The most concerning aspect about Chlamydia is not simply the lack of awareness about the infection but that many people may have contacted Chlamydia without knowing it.
“In the early stages there are no obvious and noticeable symptoms. But if it is left untreated Chlamydia can spread to other parts of the body and cause more serious conditions.”
He also noted that as well as being available in medical centres, a Chlamydia test can be purchased in a chemist and carried out at home. The sample then has to be sent off to a laboratory to be analysed He also noted that as well as being available in medical centres, a Chlamydia test can be purchased in a chemist and carried out at home. The sample then has to be sent off to a laboratory to be analysed.
Meanwhile, the treatment for the condition if the STD test proves to be positive is a simple antibiotic. According to Mr Aggarwal, all those who are being treated for the condition should visit their GP or a sexual health clinical for further tests to see if they have any other diseases.
Transmitted by sexual intercourse, Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium chlamydia trachomatis. It is often called the ‘silent’ disease because most of those who get it do not realise they have it.
Over recent years, infection rates have been climbing. For example, NHS figures suggest that between 2007 and 2008, the number of confirmed cases rose from 121,791 to 123,018. Those under the age of 25 are the most likely to have the condition.