10 September 2021
Health and Community Services (HCS) is reminding Islanders of the Sexual Health services that are available this Sexual Health Awareness Week (Monday 13- Sunday 19 September).
Although sexually transmitted infection rates are low, Islanders are encouraged to attend regular sexual health screening precisely to keep them this way. To celebrate Sexual Health Awareness Week, the Sexual Health team will be providing free safe sex information packs including leaflets, condoms, and lubricants.
Infections such as Chlamydia, Genital Warts, and Gonorrhoea remain the most common in Jersey. In 2020, 149 infections of Chlamydia, 77 of Genital Warts and 41 of Gonorrhoea were diagnosed.
For Islanders who are worried they may have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) there are free and confidential ways to get tested. The following services are free for all Islanders seeking support:
- Confidential appointments at the Sexual Health clinics in the Hospital. This service is offered Monday to Friday on a weekly basis.
- Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is available for individuals at risk of being exposed to HIV and any patients can attend screening sessions.
- Monitoring of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) which is currently sourced off-Island
- Vaccinations against Hepatitis B and HPV continue to be available for at risk groups.
- STI screening is available free of charge at Brook for under 21s, via the free Chlamydia screening programme for under 25s and privately via GPs.
- Free condoms and lubricant available at GUM Clinic.
- Screening, treatment, and follow up care from the Sexual Health team.
Deputy Medical Officer of Health and lead consultant for GUM, Dr Ivan Muscat, said: "Although we have low infection rates in Jersey and they have been reasonably stable over the past few years, it is hugely important for Islanders to take care of their sexual health. I'd like to stress the importance of using condoms which are free to collect from the GUM Clinic and are 98% effective of preventing sexually transmitted infections.
"I encourage any Islanders that are concerned for their sexual health to access the free services that are available and remain rest assured that all consultations are completely confidential."
Islanders in need of sexual health advice, screening, and treatment can contact the GUM Clinic on 442856 or s.h@gov.je.
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