Nairobi is facing a worrying public health crisis, with a surge in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Data from city clinics paints a grim picture, showing that at least 75% of samples tested return positive for one or more of these infections.
A rapid rise in infection rates has been linked to multiple factors, including unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and low awareness of STI symptoms. Alarmingly, health experts note that many patients show no visible signs of infection, meaning transmission continues unchecked and undetected.
Common STI symptoms include genital sores, painful urination, discomfort during sex, and unusual discharge. However, the absence of symptoms in many individuals poses a silent but serious health risk, heightening the spread of infections across the city.
To address this, Nairobi clinics have introduced new rapid PCR testing technology. The machines can run 12 tests simultaneously within an hour, significantly improving the speed and accuracy of screening and diagnosis. This advancement also allows for quicker detection of drug-resistant strains of gonorrhea and syphilis, ensuring patients receive the correct medication without delays.
The health impact of rising STI cases is far-reaching. Beyond the immediate symptoms, untreated infections can lead to severe complications such as infertility, increased vulnerability to HIV, and in the case of syphilis, life-threatening conditions if left untreated.
Medical professionals are urging Nairobi residents to take urgent precautions. These include consistent use of protection during sexual intercourse, regular testing, and avoiding multiple sexual partners. Awareness campaigns are also being encouraged to dispel stigma around STI testing, making it easier for people to seek medical care early.
Global data underscores the severity of the situation. The World Health Organisation estimates that one million people contract an STI every day worldwide. In 2022 alone, more than 8 million adults aged 15–49 contracted syphilis, with over 230,000 deaths linked to the disease.
The surge in STIs in Nairobi is a reminder of the urgent need for stronger public health measures, comprehensive data collection, and community-level education. With rapid testing technology now available, the focus shifts to prevention, treatment, and awareness to curb the silent epidemic threatening the city’s population.
