WiRED International Releases Sexually Transmitted Infections Module — Part 1

BY ALLISON KOZICHAROW AND BERNICE BORN

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that more than one million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired every day worldwide; that amounts to an estimated 357 million new infections of the most common types of STIs.

 

In light of this epidemic, WiRED International now offers a two-part Sexually Transmitted Illnesses module, with Part 1 to be followed soon by Part 2. WiRED’s modules describe STIs and their modes of transmission, symptoms, diagnoses and treatments. As always, WiRED emphasizes prevention as the best way to avoid any illness.

 

STIs are caused by more than 30 different types of bacteria, viruses and parasites, all spread through sexual contact. Note that although the Zika virus is not classified as an STI, it also can be spread through sexual exchange.

 

The WiRED modules examine the nine most common STIs, including gonorrhea and chlamydia (from bacteria); herpes, HIV/AIDS and human papillomavirus (from viruses); and infections from parasites. Often STIs present no symptoms. Since only parasitic STIs are curable, prevention cannot be emphasized enough.

 

STIs are sensitive subjects, but WiRED believes that giving people educational tools on these infections is vital. Please be aware that the images in WiRED’s STI modules, which depict the symptoms of STIs, are intended for educational use only. Parental caution is advised.