Get tested, get treated…

WITH new data showing that diagnosed cases of STIs are on the increase nationally, Liverpool residents are reminded that getting tested and treated has never been easier. Liverpool's integrated service:- 'Axess Sexual Health' launched in 2021 to improve the sexual and reproductive health of residents by taking a holistic approach to care. They offer better and easier access to screening and treatment of STIs alongside all methods of contraception. Alongside face face appointments, Axess also provide a wide ranging online STI screening and postal contraception offer for the City; which in some cases allows people to access what they need without attending a clinic.

Axess runs dedicated young people's Clinics and Pharmacies across the City and also now offer chlamydia testing and treatment within the community.

Who is most at risk of STIs?

Data from The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) tells us that everyone who has sex with new or casual partners without using a condom is at risk of catching an STI.

As in previous years, the highest rates of STI diagnoses nationally were seen in GBMSM (Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with-men) ; young people aged 15 to 24 years and people of Black ethnicity.

Young people aged 15 to 24 remain at the highest risk of the most common STIs; which could be due to more frequent changes of sexual partners.

Nationally diagnoses of gonorrhoea increased by 9.0%, chlamydia increased by 5.5% and diagnoses of infectious syphilis increased by 2.6%.

What's happening in Liverpool...

In 2021 there was 4,686 new STIs diagnosed in the City; an increase of around 700 on the previous year. Although still lower than pre-Pandemic levels, the numbers of newly diagnosed STIs in Liverpool remains high.

Notably cases of gonorrhoea have risen quite considerably and chlamydia detection rates among 15 to 24 year olds have increased by almost a 3rd, but equally this means more people are getting tested and treated; helping prevent onward spread and reducing the risk of serious harm to others.

You can contact Axess Sexual Heath; to order testing online or book an appointment at:- Axess.Clinic. Other local services working with our population to help provide education and support around sexual health and wellbeing and HIV, includes:- Sahir House and Liverpool PaSH (Passionate about Sexual Health)

The Liverpool PaSH service launched in September 2022, and is a charity led partnership between BHA, George House Trust and LGBT Foundation to, which exists to challenge and address health inequalities and support people to improve their sexual health and wellbeing, across Merseyside.

Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health, Cllr Frazer Lake said:- "We did expect to see an increase on the 2020 data for STIs, as per the national picture; which is very likely due to increased testing during Pandemic recovery, but I do want to remind people about our local testing offer and the support available. If people are worried about STIs there are different ways to access the help they need quickly and confidentially. Ignoring STIs can lead to long term problems, such as infertility, but the sooner people know, the sooner they can start treatment."

Director of Public Health for Liverpool, Professor Matthew Ashton said:- "A healthy sex life is important to many people. However, the health consequences of ignoring infections can be significant. Liverpool has a really good sexual health service in place, including:- online testing, alongside walk in and face to face options; with a clear website that provides some excellent information to help residents navigate all provision City wide. Axess are also very effective at partner tracing, providing follow up treatment for positive partners to reduce onward spread of infection. Dr Emer Coffey, Public Health Consultant said:- "It's sexual health week which is about #BreakingBarriers. Everyone deserves access to sexual health services and information. Free confidential sexual health support, testing and contraception is available through our local sexual health service Axess, and everyone should feel welcome."

Liverpool Advanced Public Health Practitioner (Sexual Health) and Chair of the English HIV and Sexual Health Commissioners' Group (EHSHCG) James Woolgar said:- "The increase in chlamydia detection rates (above national targets) suggests we have a well targeted and easy to access local testing offer and we would encourage as many young people as possible to screen, get treated and think about their sexual health. We want to destigmatise sexual and reproductive health care, build a sexual health culture that prioritises prevention and supports behaviour change. We also want to empower our residents to look after their own sexual health and wellbeing."

For more information on Sexual Health Week 2022, visit:- Brook.Org.UK.

5 ways to save money with pet costs at an all time high

THE price of owning a pet is on the rise, with inflation on pet products, such as food, health items and treats, up a massive 85% since 2015. Pet food costs in particular have seen a stark rise, with shoppers hitting out at high price increases in supermarkets such as:- Tesco, Asda and Morrisons. The cost of pet care has also increased by 10% in the 2021. 3.4m Brits made the heartbreaking decision to give up a pet in the last year, with rising costs a key factor. Trusted Housesitters, who provide pet sitting services, has looked into the data and offered 5 money saving tips for pet owners who may be struggling with costs.

1. Research different pet foods... Pet food can be 1 of the largest outgoings when owning a pet. Whilst some dogs and cats have sensitive stomachs, for many, putting them onto different food can be a great way to save money. Make sure you do your research and look at the ingredients; there are many reasonable priced brands which could save a lot. There are also price comparison supermarket apps, such as Trolley, so you can see where has the best prices on that day. Buying in bulk could also save you in the long run.

2. Brush your pet's teeth... A study into dog's teeth showed that 85% of dogs over 4 years old have periodontal disease, which results in infections and inflammation of the gums. Keeping your pet's teeth clean can help to avoid hefty vet bills, brushing your cat or dog's teeth every day (or at least twice weekly) can keep them healthy, which will save you money in the long run.

3. Learn to groom... Pet grooming is vital in making sure they stay healthy and comfortable, however it can be costly, at £43 on average a session, which can increase depending on the dog. If you are able to, learning to groom them at home can be a good money saving exercise. Think of things like clipping their nails, trimming their coats and cleaning around the eyes and ears, there are many helpful online sources which can help and if you are worried, or it can be impossible due to the breed then please do visit a groomer.

4. Don't skip the vet visits... Make sure your dog stays fit and active, has plenty of clean water and don't skip your vet visits, as it could lead to them catching things early, which otherwise may cost a lot to fix. Going every 3 to 6 months for a health visit could be life changing. You could also ask your vet about payment plans to spread the cost of any treatment.

5. Stick with tough dog toys... Whilst fluffy teddies may be cute, they often don't last long with a dog involved! Durable, good quality toys will last longer, saving you money in the long run by outlasting cheaper alternatives.

For more useful advice on owning a pet, please visit:- TrustedHouseSitters.Com.