Glossary

Chlamydia (Bakteria)

The most common bacterial STI in Switzerland, which is asymptomatic in more than half of cases. Chlamydia can persist for a long time and, in rare cases, lead to pelvic inflammation or fallopian tube obstruction. Antibiotic treatment is effective and well tolerated. A reliable confirmation that no chlamydia infection is present can be obtained 2-3 weeks after sexual contact.

Gonorrhea (Bacteria)

An infection with gonococci can occur without symptoms but may also cause purulent discharge, which in men is typically visible in the morning before urination. Women may also develop discharge and lower abdominal pain. Treatment is done with antibiotics, and the success of the treatment can be checked with a test after 4 weeks. A reliable confirmation that no gonococcal infection is present can be obtained 2-3 weeks after sexual contact.

Ureaplasma/Mycoplasma (Bacteria)

Genital colonization with Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma is common and rarely causes symptoms. These bacteria should only be tested for and treated under specific conditions. Therefore, testing is not recommended for individuals without symptoms.

Syphilis (Bacteria)

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It initially presents as a painless sore (called a chancre) on the genitals, mouth, or rectum, which often goes unnoticed. Without treatment, syphilis progresses through various stages and may cause rashes, fever, joint pain, and in later stages, serious damage to internal organs and the nervous system. It spreads easily through unprotected sexual contact. Testing is simple (blood test), and the infection is effectively treated with antibiotics, usually penicillin. A reliable confirmation that no syphilis infection is present can be obtained 2–3 weeks after sexual contact.

Hepatitis C (Virus)

Primarily transmitted through blood. While sexual transmission is possible, it is mostly observed among men who have sex with men and are also HIV-positive. Intravenous drug use, tattoos, or piercings under unhygienic conditions also pose a high risk of infection. In about two-thirds of cases, the infection becomes chronic and can lead to liver cirrhosis. There is no vaccine, but Hepatitis C is curable. If a risk is identified (based on a questionnaire), testing is offered through the get-checked program.

Hepatitis B (Virus)

Transmitted through blood and sexual contact. It damages the liver and leads to liver cirrhosis in 25-30% of cases. The vaccine provides lifelong protection and is covered by health insurance. If vaccination status is unclear, a test is offered through get-checked.

Hepatitis A (Virus)

In recent years, it has been increasingly observed among men who have sex with men. The acute symptoms can be severe. Travelers to countries with poor hygiene conditions are at risk of Hepatitis A infection through contaminated drinking water or insufficiently cooked food. The Hepatitis A vaccine provides reliable protection.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

The transmission rate of HIV in Switzerland decreases every year. It is a retrovirus that, without treatment, leads to immune deficiency. However, highly effective therapy prevents this and ensures that people undergoing treatment are not contagious. While HIV cannot be cured, the virus can be suppressed. A reliable confirmation that no HIV infection is present can be obtained 6 weeks after sexual contact.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV infections are extremely common. Up to 80% of sexually active people contract HPV at some point in their lives, with the virus being particularly prevalent among young adults (ages 20-30). Some HPV types cause genital warts, while others can lead to cellular changes over many years, potentially developing into precancerous conditions (especially cervical cancer, as well as anal and throat cancer). More information about HPV vaccination and testing can be found on the website.