The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has urged the public to prioritise safe sexual practices, saying this was in response to a surge in the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and infection of HIV in Gauteng.
The department reported that between April and December 2023, a total of 167,109 males sought treatment in Gauteng, with 40% being treated for Male Urethritis Syndrome (MUS).
This, the department said, is indicative of newly acquired STIs.
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HIV in Gauteng: What happened to using condoms?
A high number of MUS-reported cases are attributed to behavioural factors, including the non-use of condoms, during vaginal or anal intercourse, engagement in multiple sexual partnerships, inconsistent condom usage and substance abuse.
To address this concerning trend in Gauteng, the department has implemented various prevention interventions, such as condoms, which are free and available in health facilities.
The department said in 2020, the MUS incidence in the province was recorded at 12% and has increased over the years to 15% in 2023, with Alexandra/Sandton, Hillbrow/Braamfontein, among the highly affected areas.
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Gauteng urges counselling and testing
Gauteng Health has also encouraged the increased uptake of HIV counselling and testing, and promotion of sexual well-being and a reduction in the number of sexual partners.
In a statement on Sunday, Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko indicated that risky behaviour was on the rise, with some regions highly affected by STIs.
“With Valentine’s Day around the corner, the Gauteng Department of Health wishes to caution the public from engaging in risky sexual behaviour as this increases the transmission of sexually transmitted Infections [STIs] and HIV infection,” she said.
