Victorians riddled with STIs: department

Victorians are getting infected with chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis at record rates and many do not realise, says the health department.

Sexually transmitted infections have surged in Victoria, with gonorrhoea jumping nearly 700 per cent in 10 years.

The Department of health and Human Services says in 2017 the state recorded its highest STI numbers since records began in 1991.

Between 2008 and last year, chlamydia rates rose by 103 per cent, gonorrhoea by 690 per cent and syphilis by 253 per cent.

"While this can be associated with more testing, improved testing technology and a growing population, this rise is also linked to changing sexual behaviours. In particular, social media, dating websites and apps are changing the way we meet, connect and form relationships," Deputy Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said.