Sir Robert Peel Hospital - Pic: Angella Streluk

Young people in a Tamworth are being encouraged to say “yes” to a test for Chlamydia and avoid the long term consequences of leaving the infection untreated.

South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust (PCT) Provider Services is offering tests to young people in the 15 to 24 years age range.

Young people living in the PCT area will receive information in the post about Chlamydia and how they can access a test either by visiting the Minor Injury Unit in Tamworth’s Sir Robert Peel Hospital, attending a Contraception and Sexual Health Clinic or by seeing a pharmacist, GP or health visitor.

Kirstine Robert, Chlamydia Screening Co-ordinator for PCT Provider Services, said:

“We have already launched our campaign to test young people for Chlamydia in South Staffordshire by contacting young people directly but it’s important they know that there are a number of ways to take a test.

“Despite knowing how common Chlamydia is, many young adults are worryingly indifferent to the potentially serious consequences of catching and leaving Chlamydia untreated.

“Chlamydia is a silent infection as in the majority of cases it doesn’t produce any symptoms.  But if it is left untreated it can lead to infertility, long term pelvic pain and other serious health problems.”

Ben, 19, said:

“My ex-girlfriend told me she had tested positive for Chlamydia and that I could go and get treated at the clinic or pharmacy.
I was worried because no-one wants to think they have a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

“I went straight to my local pharmacy where I was treated and given a test to do when I got home to find out if I actually was positive or not.  The test was easy to do and the pharmacist helped me to fill in the form.  My results came back within a few days and it was positive.  I will be doing a test regularly now because I had Chlamydia and didn’t even know.”

Free testing and treatment for Chlamydia infection is quick, easy and painless.  All that is needed to conduct a test is a urine sample and a mobile phone number to send the result to.  If diagnosed we will send them a text message asking them to pick up a prescription for a course of antibiotics to clear it up.

Postal testing kits are also available directly from the Chlamydia team by telephoning 01827 306155 or TEXT ‘kit’ to 60777 including your full name, address and date of birth.