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Urgent warning over rise of sexually transmitted superbug that’s drug resistant 0 183

Stanley Myrick

AN urgent warning has been issued over the rise of a sexually transmitted superbug that it “extremely” drug resistant.

Shigella is on the increase in Britain, experts at the UK Health Security Agency said this week.

Getty – ContributorExperts have warned the illness, that can be passed on through sex, is on the rise[/caption]

It is a gut infection that causes diarrhoea, stomach cramps and fever – it is often confused with food poisoning.

Symptoms are usually seen between one and four days after exposure, and shouldn’t be dismissed.

The illness is mainly seen in gay and bisexual men, with 47 cases logged between September 1, 2021 and January 10, 2022.

This is compared to 16 cases in 17 months the year before – with experts concerned it is spreading further.

UKSHA has been following the strain since 2018, but recent cases show it is getting more resistant to antibiotics.

It is caused by bacteria found in faeces, with sex one way the infection can spread.

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Dr Gauri Godbole, Consultant Medical Microbiologist at UKHSA, said: “Practising good hygiene after sex is really important to keep you and your partners safe.

“Avoid oral sex immediately after anal sex, and change condoms between anal or oral sex and wash your hands with soap after sexual contact.

“It’s important that gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men do not dismiss their symptoms and speak to their GP or sexual health clinic, mentioning Shigella, if they are unwell.

“Men with Shigella may have been exposed to other STIs including HIV, so a sexual health screen at a clinic or ordering tests online is recommended.

“If you have been diagnosed with Shigella, give yourself time to recover. Keep hydrated and get lots of rest.

“Don’t have sex until 7 days after your last symptom and avoid spas, swimming, jacuzzis, hot tubs and sharing towels as well as preparing food for other people until a week after symptoms stop.”

You can find out more information about Shigella and get advice on other topics at Sexwise or by calling the free National Sexual Health Helpline at 0300 123 7123.

The bug can last for a week and can be found anywhere, affecting anyone – not just people having sex.

Those affected should drink fluids to prevent dehydration, and visit a doctor to see if antibiotics are required.

Paracetamol and ibuprofen work to ease headaches and high temperatures in less severe cases.

GPs should be notified if a child starts developing shigellosis symptoms.

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Supporting Ukraine Through Purchasing Power: The Initiatives Keeping the Country’s Economy Afloat 0 173

Alice Trout

Amidst the Russian invasion, Ukrainian creatives are launching initiatives to keep the country’s economy going by harnessing consumer power. Spend With Ukraine is one such online resource that connects consumers to Ukraine-based businesses across various industries, while the Ukrainian Emergency Art Fund allows for donations to support artists. Co-founder of Spend With Ukraine, Andrey Klen, emphasizes the importance of supporting the Ukrainian economy through purchasing decisions. He states, “Armies win battles, but economies win wars.”

Ukrainian brands are still operating and many are donating a portion of their sales to different needs to support the country. To sustain interest in supporting Ukraine through spending, increasing the visibility of these initiatives is key. As Klen says, “We want it to blow out.” These efforts not only help Ukrainian creatives but also support existing industries and provide a sense of normality in these difficult times.

Ensuring Safety and Consent in the Adult Film Industry: A Vital Discussion 0 259

Alice Trout

One topic that may be of interest to readers in the adult film industry is the topic of workplace safety and consent.

The adult film industry, like any other industry, has a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of its workers. This includes providing a safe working environment, protecting workers from physical and emotional harm, and ensuring that all acts are consensual. However, the nature of the adult film industry can make it difficult to ensure that these standards are met. Actors and actresses may feel pressure to perform acts that they are not comfortable with, and there have been instances of abuse and exploitation in the industry.

To address these issues, it is essential for the industry to have clear guidelines and policies in place to protect the rights and safety of workers. This includes providing education and resources for performers, implementing strict consent protocols, and holding producers and directors accountable for ensuring a safe working environment.

Another important aspect of this topic is the importance of consent in adult film. Consent is a crucial aspect of any sexual encounter and must be obtained freely, enthusiastically, and without coercion. In the adult film industry, where performers are engaging in sexual acts on camera, it is especially important that consent is explicitly obtained and respected. This can be achieved through the use of consent forms and communication between performers before and during filming.

By discussing these topics, the industry can work towards creating a safer and more respectful environment for all performers and ensure that the rights and well-being of workers are protected.

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