STDs on the upswing: NHM Vienna illuminates the taboo!

STDs on the upswing: NHM Vienna illuminates the taboo!

In the Natural History Museum Vienna, more precisely in the fool tower, a sensational special exhibition is currently being shown, which is dedicated to a often tabooed topic: sexual transferable infections (STI). This initiative is particularly important in view of the alarming increase in venereal diseases in Europe. According to the European Health Agency ECDC, the number of Gonorrhö cases has increased by 300 % since 2014. In 2023, an almost historical limit of 100,000 cases was reached in Europe. The syphilis is also on the rise: the number of reported cases has doubled in the EU and EEA countries with over 40,000 cases since 2014. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are around one million new STI cases every day in Europe, which underlines the need for clarification and prevention. This message also conveys the NHM General Director Katrin Vohland: "We have to speak openly about this topic" reports puls24 .

The exhibition not only provides information about the historical preparations and clinical pictures such as syphilis, gonorrhea, HPV and HIV, but also addresses the often prevailing stigmatization of infected. In the 19th century, for example, lush facial hair was considered a sign of health, while sick suffered from hair loss. The NHM would like to ensure more sensitivity and understanding with its exhibits, including historical moulages and current photos of clinical pictures.

an increase in focus

"There is something" - this is how you could apologize to the current developments in health reporting. General practitioners Horst Schalk has determined an increase in venereal diseases in his practice and sees this in connection with changed behavior in the population. Many of the sick showed no symptoms, which made it difficult to identify early detection and treatment. In the case of symptoms such as an unusual discharge or rashes, it is often advisable to see a doctor. Schalk emphasizes that tests are recommended despite the lack of symptoms, since many STIS, such as the gonorrhea or chlamydia, can spread out secretly So Helios .

The infection paths are diverse. Translations usually happen during sexual intercourse, be it vaginal, anal or orally. In addition, some pathogens can be transferred to the child during birth by lubricating infections or by the mother. Many are often not informed about the symptoms, which range from extraordinary discharge to typical disease symptoms such as tiredness and fever. This is where the investigation of initiatives such as the AIDS Hilfe Vienna comes in. Andrea Brunner calls for a comprehensive strategy for sexual health in Austria, which also improves the educational work explains the Federal Ministry of Health .

early detection as a key

Early detection of StIS is crucial because many of the infections can be treated, but not all Stis are curable. This also applies to HIV, which is easy to treat but not completely curable. Timely therapy is important to avoid consequential damage. Antibiotics, antiviral medication and other forms of treatment are available, the costs are usually covered by the statutory health insurance companies, especially in the event of symptoms or suspicion. In addition, partners should be examined and advised promptly to prevent the infections from spreading So Helios .

If you feel unsafe or suspect that you have come into contact with STIS, do not hesitate - search for a doctor. The contact points are diverse and offer not only medical but also emotional support. Remember: your health is a top priority!