Basseterre, St. Kitts, July 30, 2013 (SKNIS): With Culturama just around the corner, the Ministry of Health has taken the opportunity to advise revelers to be safe during the festivities.
“It is that time of the year when some people are planning to “free up” themselves during Culturama and carnivals in neighboring islands,” the Ministry announced. “Jamming all day, partying through the night, pulsating music and free flowing alcohol can be a lethal mix.
The Ministry added that “tiredness and intoxication cause deadly motor vehicle accidents” and cautioned residents to make smart decisions.
“Alcohol clouds judgment allowing people to be easily influenced to engage in sex. Unsafe sex leads to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections such as the virus that causes cervical cancer. Remember the old saying “Prevention is better than cure”. Be smart and plan ahead.”
The Health Ministry issued the following tips for persons who will be engaging in such activities:
Protect yourself – Carry your own condoms
Prevent accidents – Do not get drunk
Party people must get tested regularly
Know your human and sexual rights
Know your partner’s HIV, STI status and sexual behaviors
This message comes from the National HIV/AIDS Prevention Program and the Ministry of Health.