HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections or STI are those diseases that can mainly be transmitted by sexual intercourse. They are caused by different pathogens, some of which are relatively easily transmitted.
Sexually transmitted infections or STI are those diseases that can mainly be transmitted by sexual intercourse.
Non-sexual transmission is also often possible (by blood or bodily secretions). Sexually transmitted infections are caused by different pathogens, some of which are relatively easily transmitted.
In order to access more detailed information and learn more about the most serious sexually transmitted infections, click on the item of interest listed below.
AIDS
AIDS is the acronym for “Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome”. It is the late sequela of an infection with HIV, the Human Immunodeficiency Virus.
Chlamydia
Chlamydial infections are caused by bacteria. Transmission occurs through unprotected oral, vaginal or anal intercourse or during birth from the mother to the child. A chlamydial infection is treatable with antibiotics.
Gonorrhoea (clap)
Gonorrhoea is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection. It is transmitted through unprotected oral, vaginal or anal intercourse as well as from the mother to the child during birth. It can be treated with antibiotics.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is an infectious liver inflammation, triggered by the hepatitis A virus. Transmission is faecal-oral. Many of those infected develop jaundice. The infection leaves behind a life-long immunity. A vaccine is available.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is an infectious liver inflammation, triggered by the hepatitis B virus. Transmission occurs through contact with bodily fluids of infected persons. The majority will rapidly and spontaneously recover from the acute inflammation. Vaccination against hepatitis B is recommended.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is an infectious liver inflammation, triggered by the hepatitis C virus. Transmission occurs via the blood of an infected person. The majority will experience chronic inflammation. However it can be cured. There is no vaccination currently available.
Herpes simplex (HSV-1, HSV-2)
The herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) mainly causes infections in the mouth and facial area ("fever blisters"), whereas the type 2 virus (HSV-2) is predominantly found in the genital region (Herpes genitalis).
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
HPV are transmitted sexually and can lead to the development of cancer, and cervical cancer in particular. Vaccination can protect against infection with important types of the virus.
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is caused by serotypes L1, L2 and L3 of Chlamydia trachomatis and is sexually transmitted. It can be transmitted through unprotected vaginal, oral and anal intercourse.
Syphilis
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that is triggered by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The infection can be transmitted during the primary, secondary and early latent stages by direct contact with lesions of the skin or mucosa which can appear primarily in the genital and anal region but also in the mouth. It can be treated with antibiotics.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomonads are parasites that are often transmitted through sexual contact. Trichomoniasis can be cured with antiparasitic drugs.
Further topics
Federal Commission for Issues relating to Sexually Transmitted Infections (FCSTI)
The FCSTI is an extra-parliamentary commission. It is a national body that advises the Federal Council and the Federal Administration at a strategic level on ways of preventing and fighting HIV, viral hepatitis and other sexually transmitted infections.
Communicable Diseases Legislation – Epidemics Act, (EpidA)
The Epidemics Act aims to ensure that communicable diseases are detected, monitored, prevented and controlled at an early stage and helps to better manage disease outbreaks with a high risk potential.
Federal Office of Public Health FOPH
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Switzerland - 3003 Bern