STI warning - Lesson to be learned over infections

The past decade has seen a frightening increase in the incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and frolicking in sun resorts is a major contributory factor, according to a leading hospital consultant.

The growing trend for teenagers to head for the sun on a post-Leaving Certificate holiday is becoming more popular but the newfound freedom from home can have unpleasant consequences unless common sense prevails.

Too much alcohol can lead to risk-taking, which includes having unprotected sex and the best advice is to avoid casual sex. Even better advice is to go easy on the alcohol, but that is easier said than done, especially when away from home and with the friends.

However, if temptation proves too much, according to Dr Mary Horgan, a consultant physician in infectious diseases, at least the solution is not too drastic.

The vast majority of diseases are easy to treat if caught in time, but it would be far better to enjoy the sun and the odd drink without having to worry about avoidable infections.