07/09/2026
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM STIS AS A YOUNGER
It can take only one moment of excitement to make a decision that may affect the rest of your life. In the heat of the moment, it is easy to ignore the risks, trust someone without knowing their status, or simply think,It won't happen to me. But sexually transmitted infections (STIs) do not choose their victims, and ignorance is not protection.
STIs continue to affect many young people in our communities. Some become infected because they lack accurate information about sexual health, while others take risks because of peer pressure, curiosity, alcohol or the excitement of the moment. Whatever the reason, the consequences can be serious.
Young people need to understand that sexual health is part of their overall health. One moment of excitement should not result in a lifetime of consequences. STIs such as HIV, syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia and hepatitis B can have serious effects on a person's health if they are not prevented, detected and treated early. Some infections may also have no obvious symptoms, meaning a person can look completely healthy while transmitting an infection to someone else.
This is why community sensitisation is extremely important. Parents, teachers, health workers, churches, community leaders and young people themselves must create safe spaces where sexual health can be discussed openly and responsibly. Young people should be encouraged to ask questions, seek correct information and avoid relying on rumours or information from friends and social media.
Young people can protect themselves by making responsible choices, including delaying sexual activity, being faithful to an uninfected partner, using condoms correctly and consistently when sexually active, getting tested for STIs and HIV, and seeking medical attention whenever they notice symptoms or believe they may have been exposed. Vaccination against preventable infections such as hepatitis B and HPV is also an important part of prevention.
We should not wait until someone becomes sick before we start talking about STIs. Prevention begins with information. Let us take health education to schools, churches, youth groups, communities and social platforms where young people can easily access it.
To every young person: protect your future. Don't allow ignorance, peer pressure or temporary excitement to make decisions that can affect your health and your dreams. Seek knowledge, protect yourself and encourage your friends to do the same.
