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Students are being urged to get themselves checked for Chlamydia by the University Health Service as part of a new national initiative.
More than one in 10 people aged between 15 and 24 who are tested has the sexually-transmitted disease, according to recent figures. In line with the national Chlamydia screening programme, students now have access to free checks from pharmacies linked to the University Health Service.
Area Support Pharmacist Ravi Mohan, of Welldricks pharmacy on Glossop Road, says all students should take advantage of the programme.
He said: "Since we have had all the testing kits here we have been saying to students 'get yourselves tested', but I am concerned they are not taking up our advice.
"Even if you are in a relationship it doesn't mean you are fooling around as it can stay there for some time."
He also warned that full sexual contact is not needed to contract Chlamydia, as it can even find its way into the body through the eyes.
Chlamydia is the most common sexually-transmitted bacterial in the UK and despite being largely symptomless, can cause infertility among females. The disease can also lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and ectopic pregnancy – a condition where the baby forms outside of the womb. If contracted by men, it can lower the fertility of their sperm whilst also causing swelling to the testicles.
Mr. Mohan said the test is a simple procedure which involves giving a small urine sample.
"Appointments do not need to be made before hand and it will only take ten minutes to fill out a form," he said.
The pharmacy is also raising awareness about the effects flu can have on students over the winter period. Recent statistics show that 18,000 people die each year from flu-related illness, with an additional 30,000 hospital admissions.
Mr. Mohan said: "There are over a million GP consultations relating to flu each year that could be avoided if people got the jab.
"Flu can especially affect younger people with other conditions like asthma or diabetes.
"Students who present their U-card to any University-linked pharmacy will receive a 20% discount on flu jabs, reducing the cost to £11.99."
Michael Hunter
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