An alarming statistic from the Grey Bruce Health Unit.
Sexual Health Program Manager Denna Leach says local cases of chlamydia have risen 70-per cent from 2006 to 2008.
Stats show 137 confirmed cases in 2006 in Grey Bruce and the latest stats available in 2008 show 234 cases.
Leach says the reason for the increase is obvious — more people are having unprotected sex.
But she also notes testing is now easier with a simple urine test at local doctors offices or sexual health clinics.
Leach says both men and women can carry the disease without knowing it.
The primary age of people testing positive for chlamydia is 15 to 24 years old — however there are also those in their late 20’s or early 30’s who have tested positive.
The sexually transmitted disease — if left untreated — can lead to higher risks of infertility in both men and women.
Leach says no one should be embarrassed to go get tested for the disease — and adds it is more embarrassing to tell your partner when its too late.
Leach says the best way to protect yourself is to never have unprotected intercourse and to always tell your partner about your sexual history.
Testing can be done by request at your doctors office or at sexual health clinics in Owen Sound and Walkerton.