Sharp increase
After a steady decline in STIs in the Netherlands, in the last few years a worrisome increase, sometimes sharp and particularly with regard to Chlamydia, Syphilis and Gonorrhoea, has been observed among STI clinics and municipal health services.
The sharp increase in STIs is of particular concern since it may indicate an increase in unsafe sexual behaviour. Prevention has been a cornerstone of Dutch STI control for years, with a particular focus on young people, men who have sex with men, sex workers, hepatitis B vaccination and screening.
Care for STIs in the Netherlands
Care for STIs in the Netherlands is, on the whole, well organised and of a high standard. However, there are some difficulties regarding surveillance, financing and policy. For public and individual health reasons, it is important that STI detection and treatment intensifies, that prevention activities are continued and targeted to reach the groups most at risk and that STI surveillance improves rapidly.
A Delicate Balance
At the request of the Ministry of Health,Welfare and
Sport, STI AIDS Netherlands has published a memorandum on the state of affairs of HIV and Other STIs in the Netherlands. You can download it here.
A Delicate Balance - The State of Affairs of HIV and Other STIs in the Netherlands
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
