What are STIs and how are they transmitted
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact. They can be caused by bacteria (such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia) or viruses (such as HIV and genital herpes).
Transmission occurs through contact with infected body fluids (semen, vaginal fluid, blood) or through direct skin-to-skin contact with infected areas. Some STIs can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding. HIV can additionally be transmitted through sharing contaminated needles.
HIV and AIDS
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks lymphocytes (white blood cells) that are part of the immune system. As the virus destroys these cells, the immune system becomes progressively weaker. The person becomes increasingly vulnerable to infections that a healthy immune system would normally fight off.
AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is the late stage of HIV infection, when the immune system is so severely damaged that the person suffers from multiple opportunistic infections and certain cancers. HIV is the virus; AIDS is the condition. There is no cure for HIV, but antiretroviral drugs can slow the progression of the disease significantly.
Bacterial STIs
Gonorrhoea is caused by bacteria and can be treated with antibiotics. Symptoms include discharge and pain during urination, but some infected people show no symptoms, allowing them to transmit the infection unknowingly. If untreated, gonorrhoea can cause infertility.
The fact that bacterial STIs can be treated with antibiotics while viral STIs cannot is a key distinction. However, antibiotic-resistant strains of gonorrhoea are an increasing concern, linking this topic to antibiotic resistance.
Prevention of STIs
The most effective prevention methods are abstinence (not having sexual contact), using condoms during sexual intercourse, and limiting the number of sexual partners. Condoms act as a physical barrier, preventing the exchange of body fluids.
Regular screening helps detect STIs early, even when no symptoms are present, allowing treatment before the infection is passed on. Education about safe sexual practices is also important in reducing transmission rates.