Campaign to increase sex-infection testing

A DRIVE to get more young people tested for chlamydia takes to the road this week as “ad vans” tour Oldham.

And 10 “dump bins” will be placed at various locations so young people can pick up testing kits and post their urine samples back anonymously.

The Chlamydia screening programme is offering free testing for all sexually active young people aged 16-24 and is trialling new ways to encourage them to take it up.

Andrew Mulholland, Oldham Primary Care Trust (PCT) public health specialist, said: “Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection in England and affects one in 10 young people.

“Many people do not have symptoms when infected with chlamydia and if it is left untreated it can lead to long-term health problems.

“The good news is that it is easy to diagnose and treat.”

Oldham venues offering free chlamydia tests include all community sexual health clinics, the Oldham NHS walk-in centre and Brook Advisory Service.

Testing kits can be requested in the post — phone 0845-330 6363 or text the word Test followed by your name and address to 84010 to receive a free testing kit.

Results will be sent back via text.

Test kits can also be obtained from the RU Clear website at www.ruclear.co.uk