UHS Takes Action Against Increased Cases of Chlamydia

Recent reports of a continued increase in the number of diagnosed cases of chlamydia among University Health Services (UHS) patients has led UHS to focus on prevention and education efforts.

Twenty-seven cases have been diagnosed in the past three months at UHS. This compares to 41 diagnosed cases in all of 1996 and only 39 cases in 1997. This trend is not unique to the Harvard campus.

Chlamydia, which is caused by a microorganism, is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States and can have significant damaging effects. Effective treatment is available, however, for early infections.

Chlamydia often produces no symptoms, especially in women, so those who have been exposed are often unaware they have been infected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends periodic chlamydia screening for all sexually active young adults.

In addition to surveillance and screening efforts, UHS is taking an active role in educating students and promoting prevention of high risk behaviors. AIDS Education and Outreach (AEO), a peer education group, is exploring an initiative to make condoms more available in the Houses. The use of condoms or other barrier contraceptive methods may not completely prevent transmission, but such practices are helpful in limiting exposure to chlamydia.

The AEO Web site (www.hcs.harvard.edu/~aeo) contains information about available resources as well as locations where free condoms are available on campus. Students can call the AEO information line at 495-0404.

UHS's Center for Wellness and Health Communication offers a walk-in health resource center (Mon.-Fri. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 495-9629) on the second floor of UHS, where anyone in the Harvard community can get confidential information about chlamydia and other sexually transmitted infections. In addition, free lubricated and nonlubricated condoms are available.

Symptoms of chlamydia include unusual discharge from the vagina or penis; burning during urination; lower abdominal pain or pain during intercourse; bleeding between menstrual cycles; burning or itching around the opening of the penis; and pain in or swelling of the testicles.