A New Sexually Transmitted Disease has been confirmed

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A New Sexually Transmitted Disease has been confirmedIn a recent article by Steve, Queerplanet writer, regarding protection against such disease such as AIDS and Hepatitis, another sexually transmitted disease or infection has surfaced. Keep reading to find out more

By Rod - LifeStyle & News Editor

In a recent article by Steve, Queerplanet writer, regarding protection against such disease such as AIDS and Hepatitis, another sexually transmitted disease or infection has surfaced. The infection, lymphogranuloma venereum, or LGV, which is caused by certain strain of chlamydia, at this stage is still rare but there are now confirmed cases recorded in NSW.

The four cases were all in men who have had sexual contact with other men recently.

Although NSW Health was notified of the diagnoses in June this year, it is believed that the infections could have occurred in the last two years. Apparently LGV has already surfaced in gay communities in Europe and North America in recent years.

Symptoms of the infection can include discharge, diarrhoea, constipation and fever. However, the infection is not always obvious and can cause lasting damage such as chronic inflammation of the lymphatic system and severe genital swelling if untreated. In very rare cases it can be fatal.

“Typically people develop a small, painless sore where the bacteria enters the body, usually inside the rectum, one to two months after infection,” NSW Health director of communicable disease Dr McAnulty said.

“But sometimes these signs can go unnoticed so it’s important to be aware of symptoms and seek antibiotic treatment as soon as possible.”

“Because it’s a very rare disease and there are other more common diseases that affect particularly the rectum that present very similarly, that confusion can be made.

NSW Health is urging all men who have regular sex with other men to have regular checkups and keep an eye out for any of the above symptoms. If diagnosed in time, LGV is easily curable with a three-week course of antibiotics.

ACON president said the best way to stay protected from this infection is mainly commonsense such as wearing condoms, using lube, appropriately using sex toys safely, and wearing gloves duringfisting.

Obviously people who are already affected by the HIV virus should take particular care as the combination of both infections could have very serious effects on an individual.

“That’s why we’re keen to increase people’s awareness about the disease.”

Please guys for your sake follow those few simple rules and ensure your safety by taking proper care and using the correct protection.

http://www.queerplanet.com.au/moxie/lifestyle/health/03-08-2006-8.shtml