Free condoms to fight infections

Chlamydia can affect fertility in both men and women

Health workers are handing out condoms to people celebrating in pubs and clubs in Milton Keynes this week.

The local primary care trust wants to push home the message of safe sex as people go out to party over the Christmas period.

Health development manager Tony Welch said that it is not just AIDS and unwanted pregnancies which need to be guarded against.

People can have the infection Chlamydia without knowing it.

"One in eight people tested for the condition proved positive in a recent survey and most did not even know they had Chlamydia," he said.

"So it is very important to get a check over.

"If people are getting drunk over this period they are likely to be feeling invincible and their inhibitions will be lower than usual.

"This can lead them to taking risks they would not normally entertain so it's best to help people to be prepared."