STATEMENT ON SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS

Government of Saint Lucia

As Saint Lucia prepares to host the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup in June 2024 and Carnival 2024 with its associated activities and shows, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs would like to remind the general public of precautionary measures when engaging in sexual activities.

According to the World Health Organisation, more than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired everyday worldwide, the majority of which have no signs nor symptoms. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that are spread mainly by sexual contact. STIs are caused by some bacteria, viruses or parasites. A sexually transmitted infection may pass from person to person in blood, semen or vaginal and other bodily fluids. Sometimes sexually transmitted infections are spread in ways other than sexual contact, for example STIs can spread to infants during pregnancy or childbirth. STIs can also be spread through blood transfusions or shared needles.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B and C do exist in Saint Lucia. As we attend parties, fetes and shows, we are likely to engage in activities outside of our comfort zone, especially after consuming alcohol. The Ministry of Health cautions the public against being easily influenced or persuaded by peer pressure and music.

It is your basic human right to protect yourself against Sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies. You can do so by:

- A- Abstaining

- B- Be faithful, have one sexual partner

- C- Condom use - when used correctly and consistently condoms offer one of the most effective methods of protection against STIs including HIV and

unwanted pregnancies.

Condoms obtained from any of our public health facilities are available to the public free of charge. This includes all Community Wellness Centres around the island, as well as the Infectious Diseases Unit at the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs.

If you believe you may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection or that you may have a sexually transmitted infection, you can access testing and care services through the Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinics at the Ciceron and Vieux Fort Wellness Centres. In addition, you can access assessment services through the medical clinics at your local wellness centre, or if you prefer, you should visit your private doctor. Sexual health is as important as heart health, mental health, skin health and oral health. Always be prepared and be safe.

For further information, please call the Infectious Diseases Unit at 468-5343