A SEXUAL health organisation is hoping its new text and email service will help reduce the numbers of sexually transmitted infections among young people.
The Wiltshire and Swindon Men's Sexual Health organisation is offering people between the ages of 16 and 24 a free testing kit for chlamydia.
Mara Ranieri Davey, social marketing worker for the organisation, said: "It's out there - there is a growing rate of chlamydia in Wiltshire.
"We're hoping that people will take responsibility for their own health and do something that no-one else needs to know about."
The test, which comes in a luminous orange box, is designed to be 100 per cent confidential, the kit and postage are free and results can be posted or even texted back to you.
"We came up with the idea of making it as accessible and easy as possible," added Ms Davey.
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The scheme is part of a national campaign and the organisation is working with Wiltshire and Swindon Primary Care Trust.
Wiltshire and Swindon Men's Sexual Health is running its testing alongside screening services at GPs and sexual health clinics, but it is the only health organisation offering such an interactive service.
This postal service has only been available since February.
"We're the only one that offers it by text. They can also request it through the website - we're the only interactive service," said Ms Davey.
Through market research it was found bright orange was the most attractive colour for the kits. "It's a bit loud, but it works," said Ms Ranieri Davey.
"It's supposed to target our 16 to 24 year olds. It's supposed to be the most attention grabbing for this age group and we have found it does work.
"I spent two days at Swindon College and we distributed 70 kits over the two day period."
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections
The latest figures show chlamydia in under-25s has risen by 22 per cent in Wiltshire in recent years compared with 3.5 per cent nationally.
It is difficult to detect as up to 50 per cent of men and 70 per cent of women show no symptoms, yet one in 10 people tested are infected.
Left untreated the condition spreads to other parts of the body and can cause long-term problems such as fertility.
"People don't realise they are carrying this," said Ms Ranieri Davey. If you are having unprotected sex or sexual activity of any kind you could have it and not know you are spreading it."
The test can be done with a urine sample for men and taking a swab for women.
Results can be delivered in about three weeks.
Chlamydia is estimated to be responsible for 20 per cent of infertility cases and 43 per cent of ectopic pregnancies.
For a free testing kit call 01722 421951, text 07970 473962 or email info@wsmsh.org.uk.
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