The National Chronic Disease Unit (NCDU) announces the launch of their summer campaign entitled “Pure Rubber this summer”. The campaign’s primary goal is to promote the consistent use of condoms to protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Several strategies will be deployed including informal chats with particular groups, social media posts and upscaling the existing condom programming distribution scheme to offer various types of products; including flavoured, textured and temperature sensitive products at various locations including participating troupes throughout the summer festival.
The NCDU has launched this campaign in light of regional trends in STIs including HIV. After many years of decline, the Caribbean region is experiencing slight increases in new HIV infections especially in males. Director of the NCDU, Twyla Bradshaw-Richardson urges the public to be vigilant during this summer festival season. She states “ STIs including HIV, remain present within our community and correct, constant usage of condoms is a key component to prevent these infections. For this reason through the condom programming the Unit aims to reduce barriers; financial, logistical and social that may deter anyone from accessing condoms for intercourse. Therefore, I urge persons to please utilize the services to ensure consistent and correct condom usage if and when engaging in sex. As we know preventing is always better than cure.”
The NCDU also urges persons to remember to:
• Drink in moderation; drinking alcohol heavily lowers your ability to make good decisions and may result in risky sexual behaviours.
• Get tested and know your HIV status
For more information on the Pure Rubber this Summer Campaign, contact the National Chronic Disease Unit at 497 3930 and/or follow us on Facebook.
– Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
