STI or the Flu?

May 21, 2018

If you’re straight or gay, married or single, and sexually active you always need to evaluate your sexual health. The issue with sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) is that they are devious. STI’s don’t always present themselves in a manner which is easily identifiable, that is why they are so dangerous. There are three common bodily responses caused by contracting an STI:

1. Standard symptoms, e.g. discharge, itching, ulcerations.
2. Asymptomatic - no symptoms.
3. Flu-like symptoms, e.g. fever, sore throat, fatigue.

Of these three responses, two are of major concern. Asymptomatic infections and flu-like symptoms. Why are they of major concern you may ask? Well, because both bodily responses enable STI’s to hide in plain sight and evade detection. Hint, hint why you should frequently get tested.

But for now, what we would like to do is educate you on the types of STI’s that are commonly passed off as the flu! To keep you aware and on your toes! Don’t want you mistaking an STI for the flu.

Hepatitis A, B, and C are all contagious viral infections that affect the liver. Hepatitis is a virus that can be passed on through unprotected sexual intercourse, where saliva, semen and vaginal secretions are commonly exchanged between sexual partners. For many people, this virus either remains asymptomatic or presents itself as flu-like symptoms, e.g. fever, fatigue, muscle soreness, nausea and vomiting. However, there are tell-tale symptoms that give off a red flag! Yellowing of the skin (Jaundice) and the whites of your eyes.

HIV is a viral infection that is most commonly transmitted through the exchange of blood, semen or vaginal secretions. Individuals who engage in unprotected vaginal or anal sex are most susceptible to infection. So, what are the early signs and symptoms? Like the flu, people who have contracted HIV experience a fever, headache, sore throat, swollen lymph glands and fatigue. These early signs and symptoms usually subside within a week to a month, hence why HIV is generally mistaken for another viral infection, such as the Flu.

We want you to remain in control of your sexual health! So, get tested on the regular, don’t leave it up to chance. Let’s be safe rather than sorry!

Did you know that many STI's don't have symptoms? If left untreated they can seriously damage your fertility, health and life.

If you’re unsure what to do or if you’re worried about an STI, we’re here to help with safe and easy tests you can do at home.

Don’t risk your health!

ORDER A TEST NOW

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