Rising STI Rates Among Youth: Taichung City Launches Multifaceted Prevention Campaign Aligned with Qixi Festival

Amid rising STI infection rates among youth, the Taichung City Government Public Health Bureau continues to promote multifaceted prevention measures. On the afternoon of the 15th, from 5 to 7 PM, the bureau hosted the 'Protection in Place, Health by Your Side' STI prevention and Qixi Festival sexual health awareness event at the outdoor plaza of Guang-San SOGO Department Store. Deputy Director Chiu Hui-tzu of the Public Health Bureau, together with representatives from the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control, Taichung City Medical and Dental Associations, related organizations, and neighborhood leaders, jointly launched a citywide initiative to install 102 condom vending machines—the highest number among Taiwan’s six major cities—demonstrating a united commitment from central government, local authorities, and civil society to combat STIs.

Deputy Director Chiu emphasized that sexual health is a vital component of public health. In recent years, infections of HIV, syphilis, and gonorrhea have continued to rise among young people, warranting close attention. She hopes ongoing public education will instill the concept that 'protecting yourself means protecting others,' thereby reducing infection risks.

According to statistics from the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control, as of July 31, 2026, there were 537 new domestic HIV infections, an increase of 25 compared to the same period last year. Unprotected sexual contact remains the primary transmission route. Additionally, there were 6,121 reported cases of syphilis and 3,104 cases of gonorrhea. All three—HIV, syphilis, and gonorrhea—primarily affect individuals aged 20 to 39, underscoring the need for continued reinforcement of sexual health protection.

To improve screening accessibility, the city has built a comprehensive prevention network. In addition to 30 public health centers, 12 designated HIV hospitals, and 18 anonymous screening service providers, the city offers HIV self-testing (including at-home testing), free self-test kit redemption on campuses, and free anonymous syphilis testing for individuals aged 24 and under or students—balancing convenience with personal privacy. As of the end of July this year, 907 students have applied for free HIV self-test kits, indicating a growing health awareness among youth.

On the prevention front, to ensure easy access to protective resources like condoms, Taichung City has widely installed condom vending machines. The city now has 102 units—the highest number among the six major cities—with installations in all 29 administrative districts. These are conveniently located at public health centers, universities, and parks. Each pack costs just NT$10 (containing 2 condoms and 2 lubricants), making safe sex practices more accessible and affordable, thus reducing infection risks.

The event featured stage performances and multiple interactive health education booths. Through fun games, knowledge quizzes, and hands-on experiences, attendees learned the correct way to use condoms, became aware of HIV and STI screening resources, and strengthened their understanding of safe sexual practices.

The Public Health Bureau stressed that STI prevention requires not only medical intervention but also continuous health education. Therefore, the bureau continues to conduct outreach programs in schools, workplaces, communities, and high-risk venues. It also partners with community pharmacies to establish HIV education and consultation stations, offering more accessible and citizen-friendly health services.

Director Tseng Tzu-chan urged the public: 'With regular treatment, HIV can be effectively controlled, and STIs can be prevented through safe sex, correct condom use, and regular screening.' The city government will continue integrating cross-departmental resources to promote health education, screening services, case management, and inclusive medical care, helping citizens build proper health awareness and co-creating a healthy, safe, and inclusive Taichung.

The Taichung City Public Health Bureau reminds the public that for any questions about STIs or to learn more about consultation and screening services, please visit the CDC’s official website (https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/MPage/gH7NyWhq3ulASakaq5DDIQ) or call the toll-free防疫 hotline 1922 (or 0800-001922). For information on the locations of Taichung’s condom vending machines, please visit the Taichung City Public Health Bureau’s official website (https://www.health.taichung.gov.tw/1586565/post).