Chlamydia campaign targets young

Test kits for Chlamydia can be obtained from a website

People aged under 25 in Suffolk are being targeted by the NHS and asked to test themselves for a potentially serious sexually transmitted infection.

NHS Suffolk wants young people to take a free chlamydia test and says results can be sent back by text message.

Letters are going out to invite them to self-screen for the infection.

Those taking up the offer can order a testing kit in the post through amiclear.com - a website set up to give more information about chlamydia.

The targeted people are asked to send a urine sample or swab for testing.

Results are available within seven to 10 days, and will be sent by whichever method is most convenient - text message, e-mail or letter.

Alternatively testing is available at all community contraception clinics. The website also gives a list of GP practices offering the testing.

No signs or symptoms

The NHS estimates that 10% of sexually active young men and women may have chlamydia, the most common sexually transmitted infection.

Dr Amanda Jones, deputy director of public health, said: "Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the UK.

"It has no signs or symptoms, but can cause several long-term health problems, such as permanent infertility, if left untreated.

"It is also important to stress that Chlamydia, if diagnosed early, can easily be treated.

"We hope that this initiative will encourage all of the county's sexually active young people to take the test and make sure they are clear of the STI."

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