Disease centre reports 7.9% increase in STIs

The number of sexually transmitted infections treated in Ireland increased by 7.9% in 2002, according to figures released today by the National Disease Surveillance Centre.

The centre said the most significant increase was a 46% rise in hepatitis B infections.

It said large numbers of syphillis infections were also reported in 2002, but the figure was lower than the number reported in 2001.

The most frequently reported STIs were anogenital warts, non-specific urethritis and C.trachomatis.