Sexually transmitted infections are continuously growing in Navarra, with more than three cases detected daily. The Public Health Service recorded 1,343 infections last year. In 2018, prior to the pandemic, there were 644 cases and the numbers seven years ago have multiplied by four in 2023.
In Navarra four cases were detected, 75%, among those under 34 years of age. Five major sexually transmitted infections were reported: chlamydia (840 cases), gonorrhea (381 cases), syphilis (61 cases), HIV (37 cases) and venereal lymphogranuloma (24 cases). Most of the diagnoses were men, 56% of the cases.
Experts say that although the detection and diagnosis system for sexually transmitted infections has been improved, "risk perception is being lost" and this means that preventive measures are not used.
The HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections Program in Navarra reminds us of the need to adopt preventive measures against any type of sexual intercourse and to conduct periodic reviews to rule out infections. In fact, many sexually transmitted infections develop without symptoms.