GIRLS as young as 14 in Dorset are risking making themselves infertile by catching chlamydia.

The latest figures show chlamydia levels in those aged 24 and under have rocketed by over 25 per cent in Dorset and Somerset since 2001 and the sexually transmitted infection is proving particularly dangerous for girls under the age of 16.

Health chiefs say the problem is exacerbated by youngsters having unprotected intercourse after consuming large quantities of alcohol.

Chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), particularly in the under-16s whose cervixes are underdeveloped. It can eventually infect the womb, causing chronic pain and in some cases infertility.

One health worker in Dorset said: "Very young girls under the age of 16 are getting complicated PID and will be infertile in later life - I know about 14-year-olds, I don't know of children younger than that."

Sue Meakin, sexual health manager at Bournemouth Teaching Primary Care Trust, said: "We are very concerned.

"People are having sex younger than was the case 20 years ago. If people are having unprotected sex it could affect them whatever the age. With a 14-year-old there are issues about whether they are slightly more at risk because they can't negotiate well about condom use.

"In 18- to 24-year-olds the rates are much higher because they are much more sexually active and having more partners - they're earning, living away from home for the first time and come to Bournemouth for the university, nightclubs, beaches and tourism." A website entitled "Frisky" has been set up and adverts in pubs and clubs urge youngsters to call 07770 266366 for sexual health advice.

A total of 611 people aged 20 to 24 were treated at Dorset and Somerset GUM clinics last year. Also treated were 400 aged 16 to 19 and 18 aged 16 and younger. If caught earlier chlamydia can usually be easily treated with antibiotics.

But health officials fear the problem could be much worse. Dr Sue Bennett of the Dorset and Somerset Health Authority said: "The really worrying thing about 16- to 19-year-olds is that they are particularly intimidated about talking to people who work in sexual health.

"Chlamydia goes hand in hand with teenage pregnancies but for young people with multiple partners taking the pill is not enough."

First published: September 5