Warning - New sex disease hits UK In recent months reports have begun to emerge of a new sexually transmitted infection spreading through Western Europe and the UK. The disease known as Lymphomagranuloma Venereum (LGV) was until now most commonly seen in the developing world but there have been recent outbreaks in Rotterdam, Antwerp, Paris, Stockholm, Hamburg and London. Most recently two men in New York were diagnosed with the disease. The 24 cases confirmed in England have been in gay men but both sexes can contract LGV through unprotected sex. LGV is caused by a strain of bacteria, similar to the one that causes Chlamydia, another sexually transmitted infection (STI). Its symptoms include rectal inflammation with possible bleeding, genital ulcers, swelling in the groin and fatigue but it can be easily treated with a three-week course of antibiotics. However if LGV is not detected and treated, complications can develop such as fever, weight loss and lesions and permanent scarring of the rectal lining. Anyone who thinks they might have put themselves at risk of LGV or any other STI should visit their local sexual health clinic for a check-up. Will Mutland from the Terrence Higgins Trust said: "We are working with key target groups of HIV+ men to raise awareness about LGV." He said this group might be particularly at risk because of they have a condition that affects the immune system and its ability to fight infections. In order to ensure people are aware of the symptoms the Terrence Higgins Trust has produced an information leaflet for gay men explaining the risks of LGV and distributed it in high risk areas. You can get a copy direct from NLGBA.
|