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Portsmouth Tops the Charts for Chlamydia in the South East
New data from Public Health England reveals Portsmouth clocked up 1,410 new chlamydia cases in 2020, a staggering rate of 657 per 100,000 people. That’s the highest in the county and the entire South East region.
Portsmouth: A Hotspot for STIs
When you factor in other STIs — including gonorrhoea, syphilis, and herpes — Portsmouth ranks as the 20th highest hotspot in England. The local public health team says the city’s rates have been above the national average since 2017. But part of that is down to Portsmouth’s higher screening levels.
“Some STIs do not show symptoms, or may not have symptoms for a long time. Delaying diagnosis or treatment can cause severe health issues,” warned Helen Atkinson, Director of Public Health at Portsmouth City Council.
“Talk to your partner about contraception. Only barrier methods, like condoms, protect against STIs. Get tested regularly and take treatment promptly to stop the spread.”
‘Super Gonorrhoea’ Sparks Health Warnings
Health chiefs are alarmed after four cases of antibiotic-resistant ‘super gonorrhoea’ popped up in England among people in their 20s. Portsmouth recorded 206 cases of regular gonorrhoea in 2020—ranking 53rd highest nationally.
Roger Batterbury, Chair of Healthwatch Portsmouth, added: “Portsmouth is a university city with a dense population and existing health inequalities. Now, with Covid restrictions eased, STI cases may be surging.”
Where to Get Tested in Portsmouth
Sexual health services in Portsmouth are managed by Solent NHS Trust, with a clinic at St Mary’s Community Health Campus in Milton.
Debbie Zimmerman, head of service for Solent NHS Trust Sexual Health, said: “We’re committed to understanding community needs and lowering STI rates through safe sex education and support.”
Residents can also get free home testing kits from letstalkaboutit.nhs.uk or visit the sexual health clinic at St Mary’s.
For clinic info or appointments, call 0300 300 2016.
Portsmouth STI Rates (per 100,000 people, 2020)
- Chlamydia: 657
- Gonorrhoea: 96
- Syphilis: 14.4
- Herpes: 52.6
- Genital warts: 75
Comparison: Chlamydia Rates in Local Areas
- Portsmouth – 656.8
- Southampton – 600.3
- Gosport – 324.8
- Havant – 292.9
- Fareham – 258.7
- East Hampshire – 163.9
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