Facebook to promote safe sex
POSTED February 14, 2009 - 12:24 | POSTED BY Riya Chauhan
Last edited by Shikha Patial on February 14, 2009 - 13:05
New York, February 14: Social networking is beyond just expanding your friend circle, it now seeks to expand knowledge of safe sex. After getting us used to e-cards and e-commerce, e-condom is the next big thing to hit the web.
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has introduced a Facebook application to encourage the city’s official condom (NYC condoms), which was introduced on Valentine’s Day, two years ago.
In addition, The Health Department has also deiced to give NYC condoms to residents sans any charges. The free condoms can be picked online via the Facebook page, and they can also be availed at local doctor’s offices, hospitals and other city health establishments.
Authorities have dedicated a special page to the condoms. Visitors to the page can pass on ‘e-condoms’ to friends, discuss safe sex and also get to learn about places where they can pickup free condoms.
Dr. Monica Sweeney, the assistant health commissioner for HIVdefine prevention and control, said the Facebook page “will help million of people spread the word about condoms.” In turn, it would help prevent many from catching the dreaded infections of HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, clamydia or other diseases.
Also, the page would keep the users updated with statistics of these diseases among New Yorkers and help them weigh their own risk. This would specially be of advantage to the youngsters, who form a major percentage of Facebook users and are at the uppermost need of education regarding safe sex.
The unique scheme has already caught the attention of the citizens and Wednesday saw more than 1,000 condoms being passed on by Facebook users.
“Condoms protect against contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases when used correctly and consistently. They also prevent unintended pregnancy. We encourage New Yorkers to stay safe on Valentine's Day -- and everyday -- by using condoms,” said Dr. Sweeney.
Following the launch of the nation’s first branded city condom in 2007, more than 70 million pieces have been given till date. Each month, more than 3 million free condoms are passed.
