Sexually-transmissible infections are on an alarming rise in Greater Dandenong, according to official stats.
In the region, the numbers with gonorrhoea are up 191 per cent, syphllis 113 per cent and chlamydia 18 per cent over the past five years.
And most people are not even aware of it.
STIs have been increasing at record rates across Australia over the past decade, says Department of Health and Human Services deputy chief health officer Brett Sutton.
He attributed it to changing sexual behaviours, particularly on social media, dating websites and apps.
“The good news is most (STIs) are curable and all are treatable.
“If left untreated, they can cause long term effects … including infertility.”
The best prevention was to always use a condom, Dr Sutton said.
He urged people to get tested and seek treatment.
Details: betterhealth.vic.gov.au/STI
