6 most common STI in Australia

This blog is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis. If you have health concerns, consult an AHPRA-registered telehealth doctor or request a medical certificate online if clinically appropriate. Please note: Hola Health does not currently offer Mental Health Care Plans.

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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) pose a major public health concern in Australia. 1 in 6 Australians get an STI in their lifetime. Despite progress in healthcare and education, STIs continue to affect a large fraction of the population. Let’s explore the most common STIs in Australia, their prevalence, contributing factors, and the measures implemented to handle and mitigate their effects.  

Note: This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Telehealth GPs cannot perform physical examinations, take physical swabs, or administer injections. Certain STIs (such as Gonorrhoea and Syphilis) require physical clinic attendance for treatment. Pathology tests are required to confirm diagnoses. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP and bulk billing is available for eligible patients during Medicare-defined periods; otherwise, private fees apply. Ensure your privacy is protected. All consultations are strictly confidential and conducted via secure, encrypted platforms to safeguard your personal health data.

Common sexually transmitted diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs or STIs) are infections that are primarily spread through sexual contact. Here’s an overview of the most common STIs, their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options:

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is the most reported STI in Australia. In 2024, there were approximately 101,742 reported cases. The rate of chlamydia infections has been increasing over the past decade, particularly among young people aged 15-29.

Many people with chlamydia may not display any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include painful urination, abnormal genital discharge, and pain during sexual intercourse. The diagnosis is determined using a urine test or a swab from the contaminated region. Rarely, chlamydia can infect the throat after oral sex and cause a sore throat or swollen lymph nodes (glands in the neck). Chlamydia can be easily treated with antibiotics. If you suspect you have been exposed, a telehealth GP can issue a pathology request for a urine test or swab. If the test confirms chlamydia, oral antibiotics can be prescribed via an eScript.

Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea, like Chlamydia, is a bacterial infection. Gonorrhea is also common, with around 32,000 cases reported in 2022. There has been a significant increase in gonorrhoea cases over recent years, especially among young adults. It can harm the genitals, rectum, or throat. Symptoms may include a burning feeling when peeing, discharge from the genitals, or no symptoms at all.

It is diagnosed using a urine test or a swab taken from the afflicted region. Antibiotics are part of the treatment plan. If you suspect an infection, a telehealth GP can provide pathology request forms for testing. Note: Current Australian guidelines for treating Gonorrhoea typically require an intramuscular antibiotic injection. Therefore, if your test is positive, you will be directed to attend a physical clinic or sexual health centre for treatment.

Genital herpes

Genital herpes, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), is widespread in Australia. It’s estimated that around 10% of Australians are affected by genital herpes. Common symptoms include painful blisters or ulcers on the genitals, itching, and discomfort during urination. A sample from an active sore can confirm the diagnosis or a blood test may be required. Although there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can help control symptoms, shorten outbreaks, and reduce transmission. A telehealth GP can assess your symptoms and, if clinically appropriate, issue an eScript for antiviral therapy.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is one of the most common STIs in the world, including in Australia, and it is associated with most cases of cervical disease. Studies suggest that about 80% of sexually active Australians will contract an HPV infection at some point in their lives. While many individuals with HPV do not exhibit symptoms, some may develop genital warts. HPV is often detected with a Pap smear or HPV test in women. HPV cannot be treated directly; however, prescription medications can be used to treat genital warts. The HPV vaccination is available to help prevent infection.

Syphilis:

Syphilis is a bacterial illness that develops through stages if left untreated. Painless sores at the infection site are typical early-stage signs.Syphilis cases have been rising, with approximately 10,000 cases reported in 2022. In the advanced stages, one may experience the emergence of rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes and even memory loss. Syphilis is diagnosed via a blood test or a sample of a sore. Treatment for syphilis involves specific penicillin antibiotics. Because this treatment requires an intramuscular injection, it must be administered by a healthcare professional in a physical clinic. A telehealth GP can provide the initial blood test referrals to detect the infection and guide you on where to receive treatment.

HIV/AIDS:

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) damages the immune system and, if left untreated, can cause Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome .  As of 2022, approximately 30,000 people were living with HIV in Australia. Common early symptoms include flu-like sickness, fever, and exhaustion. However, symptoms may not show for several years. HIV is detected with a blood test. Although there is no cure, antiretroviral medication (ART) can successfully control HIV. ART is highly specialised and prescribed by specialist doctors. A telehealth GP can provide confidential blood test referrals for HIV screening and facilitate urgent referrals to Sexual Health Specialists if you test positive or require Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). 

Prevention steps

Preventing sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) is crucial for maintaining sexual health and avoiding potential complications. Here are some key prevention strategies: 

1. Use condoms: Consistent and proper condom usage during vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse dramatically lowers the chance of developing STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and HIV. Condoms operate as a barrier, preventing direct contact with infectious fluids. 
2. Get vaccinated: Certain STIs, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B, can be prevented using vaccines. Vaccination, particularly at a young age, protects against infections that might lead to major health consequences such liver disease. 
3. Limit sexual partners: Having fewer sexual partners minimises the chance of infection. Being in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected spouse is one of the most efficient strategies to avoid STIs. 
4. Regular testing: Routine STI screening is crucial, especially if you have several sexual partners or engage in sexual activity with new partners. Early identification of STIs allows for quick treatment and decreases the risk of the infection spreading. 
5.  Avoid sharing personal items: Some STIs, such as HIV and hepatitis, can be transmitted through tainted blood; therefore, do not share personal things such as razors, needles, or syringes. 
6. Open communication with partners: Discuss sexual health honestly with your partner. Sharing information about prior STIs, testing, and preventative techniques can assist in reducing the chance of infection. 
7. Avoid substance abuse before intercourse: Substance abuse can impair judgment and heighten the chance of unsafe sexual activity. It is critical to make educated judgments regarding protection before participating in sexual activity. 
8. Regular medical checkups: Regular medical visits aid in the early diagnosis and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. Getting testing, treatment, and prevention advice is convenient with online telehealth consultations from the comfort of your home. 

How Hola Health may be able to help

Hola Health is an Australian telehealth platform that connects you with registered doctors and nurse practitioners — from the comfort of your home, at a time that suits you. Depending on your situation, a Hola Health clinician may be able to help with:

• 24/7 General medical advice via telehealth doctor consult — talk through symptoms or health concerns with a registered doctor or medical practitioner
• Online sick certificate — for work or personal leave, when clinically appropriate
• Referrals to specialists – or in-person services when needed
• Instant scripts from an online doctor (if clinically appropriate) — at a clinician’s discretion and where clinically suitable
• Pathology or imaging requests — when assessed as appropriate by your treating clinician

Hola Health clinicians are AHPRA-registered Doctors and medical practitioners in Australia. They will always recommend an in-person consultation, specialist referral, or emergency care if that is in your best interest.

Note: Telehealth is not suitable for all conditions. Hola Health does not replace your regular GP, specialist, or emergency services. If you are unsure whether telehealth is right for your situation, we recommend speaking with your usual healthcare provider. In emergencies, call 000.

Conclusion

In conclusion, STIs continue to be a public health problem in Australia, with chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhoea, human papillomavirus, and herpes simplex virus being the most prevalent. Addressing these infections requires a holistic approach involving regular screening, widespread vaccination, and education on safe sex practices. By prioritising these strategies, the impact of STIs can be mitigated and public health can be improved.