Fewer new STD infections in Switzerland

‘Still hot after sex?’ asks the poster, hinting at potential illness. Keystone

New cases of HIV and syphilis have gone down in Switzerland, according to the Federal Office of Public Health. Gonorrhoea incidence remains stable.

With 519 confirmed cases in 2014, HIV diagnoses dropped by 10% on 2013 (576 cases), announced the health officeExternal link on Monday. There were also fewer new syphilis infections, and no increase in the number of gonorrhoea cases.

The office attributes the HIV drop to the decrease in cases among heterosexuals. There was no change among men who have sex with men. According to health office data, it is mainly women in relationships who become infected with HIV, whereas men tend to pick it up via casual sex.

Unlike HIV and syphilis, gonorrhoea is more of a problem among heterosexuals – especially as it is becoming more resistant to the typical antibiotic therapies. Chlamydia, meanwhile, is on the rise. It mainly affects young women.

The health office credits its LOVE LIFE multimedia campaign for helping to spread sexual health awareness. In addition to encouraging people to use condoms, the authorities urge them to see a doctor immediately if they experience any genital itching, discharge or pain.