Screening for these sexually transmitted infections will soon be free for young people

From 1 September 2024, anyone under the age of 26 will be able to undergo free testing without a medical prescription in medical analysis laboratories for these four sexually transmitted infections: hepatitis B, syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea. HIV is already reimbursed. The measure came into force with a decree published in Official newspaper July 8th.

This measure is more than necessary. sexually transmitted diseases are increasing “at a worrying rate” in Europeaccording to a report by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) published in March 2021. The centre highlighted an increase of 48% for gonorrhoea, 34% for syphilis and 16% for chlamydia, between 2021 and 2022.

How will the screening take place?

Those under 26 will be able to go to a medical analysis laboratory. without prescription. A quiz will be given to them upon arrival with questions such as: “Do you have symptoms of sexually transmitted infections?”, “Have you had more than one sexual partner in the last 12 months or would you like to stop using condoms with your new partner?”, “Has one of your partners tested positive for one or more sexually transmitted infections (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis)?”. The questions will also concern the desired collection method or sexual practices. The answers to this questionnaire will allow determine which are the “most relevant screening and self-sampling methods”. the most suitable”, specifies the decree.

In case of positive results, the results will be communicated to the patient” by phone call or upon patient arrival ». The patient will then be directed to an appropriate care facility for the medical management of sexually transmitted infections concerned.