Chlamydia test team hails success

Chlamydia is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections.

A chlamydia screening service in Essex reached 26.4% of its target group between April 2008 and March 2009 against a government objective of 17%.

The North East Essex NHS service was set a target to screen 41,924 people between 15 and 24 years of age.

Jayne Overett, screening manager, said: "We have been visiting venues such as pubs and clubs encouraging young people to take a test."

The results mean the service is the fifth best in England.

"We've also visited numerous schools and colleges, youth clubs, the military prison and the garrison, family planning clinics, pharmacies and GP surgeries."

Alison Woolnough, senior public health specialist, said: "Chlamydia screening is a very important issue for the NHS because the prevalence of the infection is currently so high.

"It is therefore very encouraging to find ourselves the best-performing service in the East of England and the fifth best in the country."