LGA responds to Public Health England’s annual sexually transmitted infections (STI) data for 2020, which show a decline in the number of people attending and testing positive for STIs.
Responding to Public Health England’s annual sexually transmitted infections (STI) data for 2020, which show a decline in the number of people attending and testing positive for STIs, Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board, said:
“The impact of COVID-19 restrictions, including on attendances at sexual health clinics, is reflected in these figures and could mean we see a surge in demand as life returns to normal.
“Councils, which are responsible for public health, have continued to provide sexual health services over the last 18 months despite resources being stretched due to the pandemic.
“This includes finding new and innovative ways to deliver services via online consultations and home testing kits, expanded community outreach, managing staff being redeployed to support the COVID-19 response and a focus on urgent STI presentations and those at higher risk.
“While we have seen a decline in STIs, this also suggests that some people who were infected might not have sought advice during lockdown restrictions.
“Investing in councils’ public health budgets now will help relieve pressure and save money for other public services, including the NHS and social care, by supporting people to live healthier, safer lives, as we look to build back better from the pandemic and level up the country.”