WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CHLAMYDIA
* It affects an estimated one in 20 young Australians aged 15 to 29.
* It is spread by unprotected vaginal or anal sex.
* About 80 per cent of people have no symptoms.
* If symptoms are present they will usually appear several weeks after being infected.
* Women with symptoms may notice an abnormal vaginal discharge and, or, a burning sensation when urinating.
* Symptoms in men can include a discharge from their penis; burning sensation when urinating and pain and swelling in one or both testicles.
* If left untreated, it can spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes causing women to become infertile in some cases.
* In males, it can lead to longer-term infection of the testicles.
* It's detected by a simple swab or urine test.
* It's easily treated with antibiotics and sex must be avoided until the full course has been taken and for at least a week after.
* It can be prevented by using a condom
(Source: UNSW's Kirby Institute and the Australian Government Department of Health)
