What are sexually transmitted infections (STI’s)?  These are infections that are primarily transmitted through sexual contact. Bacteria, viruses, or Protozoa mainly causes STI’s. The three most common symptoms that a person can present with are urethral discharge, genital ulceration, and vaginal discharge. The three most common STI’s seen in the Turks and Caicos are herpes (HSV type 1 and 2), gonococcal infections and Chlamydia.

Why STI’s are important?

• They are common
• Often asymptomatic meaning no symptoms
• Have major complications
• They are expensive to treat if not caught early
• And they have a synergy with HIV

As sexually transmitted infections are a major public health problem today world wide, they are the most common causes of long-term illnesses, and even death. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported an estimated 38 million curable STI’s occurred within Latin America and the Caribbean in 1999. Figures for sexually transmitted infection are generally weak globally due to lack of or under reporting. Due to these factors it is important for us as a nation to become more aware and each one of us do our part to control sexually transmitted infections within the TCI.

We now recognize the link between sexually transmitted infections and HIV. Due to the inflammation and ulcers commonly caused by STI’s it increases the acquisition of HIV greatly.