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Sexually transmitted infections on the rise in the North

Brett McGarry
2404syph11
According to public health, syphilis is on a sharp rise. Courtesy of Public Health

The Chief Public Health Officer for the NWT has announced a public health advisory on increasing rates of sexually transmitted infections.

According to a Tuesday news release, there has been a dramatic increase in gonorrhea and syphilis rates in NWT residents aged 15 to 30.

Gonorrhea rates are now 17 times higher than the 2016 national average and five times higher than the 2013 NWT rate.

Now gonorrhea is 17 times higher than the national average.
Courtesy of Public Health

Syphilis rates are now seven times higher than the 2013 NWT rate, with 25 cases reported since 2015.

According to public health, syphilis is on a sharp rise.
Courtesy of Public Health

Chlamydia remains the most common STI in the territory, but infection rates have not increased as drastically as gonorrhea or syphilis.

Front line practitioners will now be looking at their patients' sexual histories, providing treatment and promoting safe sex practices.

The public health office is offering increased access to patients who would like to be tested for STIs. Patients can call 867-767-9120 for a confidential STI screening.

2404syph12
Now ghonorrea is Courtesy of Public Health