Gauteng Health urges caution amid rise in STIs
The Department of Health in Gauteng has reported an increase in the transmission of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the province.
A total of 167 109 men were infected with Male Urethritis Syndrome (MUS) between April and December 2023.
Departmental spokesperson Motalatale Modiba said this is a 3% increase compared to 2020.
"In 2020, the MUS incidence in the province was recorded at 12% and has increased over the years to 15% in 2023.
"This data reflects an increase of STI incidence in Alex, Sandton, Johannesburg's inner city, Braamfontein, Hillbrow, Merafong sub-district in West Rand, Katlehong, Germiston, Katlehong and Vooslorus, Lesedi in Sedibeng and Bronkhorstspruit in Tshwane.
"Sub-district E and F in Johannesburg has tertiary institutions and high-risk individuals such as sex workers and people who inject with drugs.
"Merafong is a mining area with a majority of the male population, Region 7 has farming areas where cultural norms hinder uptake of services especially amongst men, while Ekurhuleni South and Lesedi have TVET colleges, informal settlements, truck stops and hostels," added Modiba.
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