The other side of the coin: Syphilis, gonorrhea… and other STIs risk increasing during the Olympic Games

in collaboration with

Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)

When we talk about the future Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris 2024, we do not necessarily think about the risk of the spread of sexually transmitted infections. And yet, with more than 16 million people expected in the capital to celebrate the event, the risk is in fact greater.

The important thing is to protect yourself!

Chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, HIV… At the STI Olympics, there are many winners as they are on the rise throughout the world. And we know that festive events bringing together millions of people promote their spread.

In 2000 after the Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia, a study noted a 29% increase in the proportion of people with symptoms or known contact with an STI. A nice record!

However, health authorities recognize a real difficulty in predicting the impact of these gatherings.

“We must insist on prevention, which involves condoms”

“Then, there are emergency services in Paris, notably at the Hôtel-Dieu where I work, open 24 hours a day, which can provide post-exposure treatment to HIV.” adds the doctor. “For other STIs, depending on the incubation time of the disease, it is possible for people passing through to receive a diagnosis during their stay there. This risks, in fact, generating an overload of work for the public hospital. And let’s not forget the risk of pregnancy with requests for morning-after pills which will also increase.” he admits.

200,000 condoms distributed to athletes

For its part, to provide prevention among the population, Public Health France is relying on the “publication of specialized brochures” during this period. An awareness campaign on the risks linked to STIs is also planned during sexual health week, from June 3 to 9.

Finally, more than 200,000 condoms (male and female) and oral dams will be distributed to athletes and delegations more generally.