Examples of STIs - JSS3 Physical and health education Lesson Note

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are typically transmitted through sexual contact. Some common examples include:

 

Chlamydia: Caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, it can infect both men and women. It can cause serious, permanent damage to a woman's reproductive system, making it difficult or impossible for her to get pregnant later on.

 

Gonorrhea: Caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, it can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat. If left untreated, it can lead to infertility in both men and women, as well as other complications.

 

Syphilis: Caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, it progresses through several stages and can cause serious health problems if not treated, including paralysis, blindness, and even death.

 

HIV/AIDS: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks the body's immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune system fight off infections. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection, where the immune system is severely damaged, and the individual becomes susceptible to opportunistic infections.

 

Herpes: Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), there are two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 commonly causes oral herpes (cold sores), while HSV-2 typically causes genital herpes. Both types can be transmitted through oral, genital, or anal sex.

 

HPV (Human Papillomavirus): There are over 100 types of HPV, some of which can cause genital warts and others that can lead to cervical cancer, as well as other cancers affecting the genitals, anus, mouth, and throat.