STD ‘epidemic’ caused by Tinder, Grindr, say U.S. health officials

Rhode Island health officials are blaming hookup apps, such as Tinder and Grindr, for sparking an “epidemic” of sexually transmitted diseases in the state.

There was a dramatic spike in cases of STDs from 2013 and 2014 – syphilis cases, for example, climbed by a staggering 79 per cent while gonorrhea cases rose by 30 per cent.

“These data send a clear signal that despite the progress we have made in reducing STDs and HIV over the years, there is more work to do,” Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott,  director of the state’s health department, said in a statement.

READ MORE: Interactive map – Ontario sexually transmitted diseases by postal code

The rash of STD cases is predominantly affecting young adults. New cases of HIV even rose by 33 per cent.

The health officials say better testing is tied to the rise in cases but so is social media.

“High-risk behaviours include using social media to arrange casual and often anonymous sexual encounters, having sex without a condom, having multiple sex partners and having sex while under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” a press release said.

READ MORE: Could better sex ed solve Ontario’s rising gonorrhea rates?

The department offers these tips for safe sex:

Use condoms or a dental dam each time you have sex. Birth control pills and spermicides do not prevent STDs

Get tested regularly for STDs and HIV. In Rhode Island, routine testing is recommended for anyone age 13 and older.

Know your partner(s)’ sexual health status. Even if you are treated for an STD, you could get re-infected because your partner was not tested and treated too.

If you’ve been diagnosed with an STD, take the medication as prescribed and do not have sex with anyone until your healthcare provider says it is safe to do so.

Avoid sex or close physical contact if you or a sexual partner has symptoms of an STD and see a healthcare provider for treatment.

carmen.chai@globalnews.ca
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