6
 December

HIV in travellers

Whilst the overall rates of HIV in Australia have fallen, statistics recently released by the government indicate rates are increasing in heterosexual men. This largely seems to be as a result of them having unprotected sex in countries where there are high rates of HIV.

To coincide with World AIDS day the health department has launched a campaign to raise awareness amongst those travellers who are at the greatest risk. We can’t stress enough the importance of using condoms regardless of which country you are in  (HIV isn’t the only thing out there) and speak to your GP about getting tested upon return (and regularly if you are at continued risk). For some,  preventative medications may be appropriate and don’t forget to take your own condoms with you to ensure they are of good quality.

https://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/McGowan/2019/12/Going-somewhere-Dont-bring-HIV-home-from-your-holiday.aspx

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-12-01/hiv-diagnosis-rates-in-wa-more-straight-man-than-gay/11752598