The widely held belief is that Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) can only be transmitted through sexual intercourse.
Unbelievably, research shows that one can contract an STI through a number of ways including sharing lip balms and touching beards.
There are nine types of STIs namely Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Genital Herpes, HIV/AIDS, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Syphilis, Bacterial Vaginosis, Trichomoniasis and Viral Hepatitis.
Herpes, a common STI is caused by HSV (herpes simplex virus), has two types namely; simplex type 1 which affects the oral area and simplex type 2 that affects the genitals.
Both types can be spread from direct contact.
Kenyans.co.ke compiled five ways you can get the herpes virus without engaging in sexual intercourse.
Your lip balm
You are likely to contract oral herpes if you share lip balm with an infected person.
Someone infected with oral herpes can spread the virus by using lip balm near an infected area.
Although STI's do not live long on inanimate objects, you are advised to avoid sharing lip balms too readily.
Someone's beard
Beards are known to be a breeding ground for germs that cause fungal infections and herpes.
A very thick beard may disguise visible symptoms of oral herpes such as sores.
You are advised to avoid touching people's beards.
Men are also advised to practice good beard hygiene.
Getting a Tatoo or Piercing
The needles used for tattoos and piercings can transmit blood-borne infections like hepatitis B or C.
Tattoos and piercings that are done outside a professional setting can cause a high risk of hepatitis transmission because the needles and tools may not be cleaned and disposed of properly.
If you are considering getting a tattoo or piercing, it is best that you see a professional and understand their health codes in order to protect yourself from contracting blood-borne STIs and other infections.
Bikini Waxing
Bikini waxing is the art of total hair removal by using a special type of wax.
This is mostly done around the pubic areas.
Research shows that removing pubic hair can cause deficits in the mucocutaneous barrier (the skin's membrane) which makes it easier for viruses or bacteria to enter the body.
Tanning bed
A tanning bed is a device that emits ultraviolet light to produce a cosmetic tan.
It is typically found in salons, gyms, spas, hotels and sporting facilities.
The Ultraviolet light used in a tanning bed can help kill bacteria and viruses but over time the bacteria and viruses become resistant.
The herpes virus is common on the beds making people who use them prone to infections.
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