Christmas Socialising Linked to Surge in STI Cases, Expert Warns

As the festive season approaches, health professionals are raising alarms about a potential increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs). According to Dr Aisling Loy, a consultant at St James’s Hospital, the period around Christmas sees a significant uptick in STI diagnoses, largely attributed to increased socialisation and alcohol consumption.

Dr Loy noted that the weeks leading up to Christmas and the weeks following it are particularly busy for STI clinics. “This week leading up to Christmas and the weeks following Christmas are our busiest times in clinic,” she stated during an appearance on The Pat Kenny Show. She explained that many individuals let their guard down during the holiday season, leading to risky behaviour.

The consultant highlighted that, despite a decline in STI cases following a significant peak after the pandemic, the holiday season poses a unique challenge. “People go out, they take too much to drink and sometimes other substances and maybe make decisions that they normally wouldn’t make,” Dr Loy said. The resulting consequences can lead individuals to experience symptoms of STIs, prompting them to seek medical assistance.

Many people may not realise that while symptoms can appear within two weeks of contracting an STI, a significant number remain asymptomatic. “You could have something and not have any symptoms at all, so don’t let that put you off getting tested,” Dr Loy advised. Symptoms such as unusual discharge, lesions, or pain during urination typically manifest within this two-week window, but she emphasised that most STIs do not present with noticeable symptoms.

While the overall number of STI diagnoses in Ireland is lower than the peak observed after lockdown, Dr Loy reported that rates remain elevated compared to pre-pandemic figures. “We’re still up 30% on STI diagnoses in Ireland from 2019,” she confirmed. However, she also mentioned a recent decline of around 10% over the past year, which she attributes to the introduction of new measures, increased testing, and preventative strategies like DoxyPEP for the GBMSM (Gay, Bisexual, Men who have Sex with Men) community.

Despite these positive trends, Dr Loy expressed concern that the use of condoms may not be as widespread as necessary. “I really don’t think that’s the case,” she remarked, underscoring the importance of safe practices during the festive season.

For those concerned about their sexual health, the Health Service Executive (HSE) offers free at-home STI testing kits, which can be ordered online. With the holiday season upon us, Dr Loy’s warnings serve as a timely reminder of the importance of maintaining awareness and prioritising sexual health during this festive period.