There was a rise in the number of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in Ireland last year.

Provisional 2018 data from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) revealed a 7% increase compared to 2017.

The main STIs were chlamydia, gonorrhoea, genital herpes and syphilis.

The HSE Sexual Health & Crisis Pregnancy Programme (SHCPP) is advising people on the importance of using condoms.

In recent years, the HSE said the greatest rate of STIs is among young people aged 15-24 years, and men who have sex with other men.

The HSE National Condom Distribution Service (NCDS) distributes free condoms and lubricant to third-level colleges, festival and nightlife venues, NGOs and community organisations.

Condoms are also distributed to specific social venues such as saunas, bars, clubs and pubs.

Helen Deely is programme lead of the SHCPP.

"Many STIs do not have any symptoms. If you think you have an STI or you may have been at risk, it is important to get tested and if necessary, be treated.

"Treating STIs promptly reduces the likelihood of them being passed onto someone else.

"This is particularly important for HIV.

"Starting HIV treatment as early as possible keeps you healthy and stops HIV transmission to others.

"We will continue to promote the safer sex message across numerous channels and provide condoms to those who are most at risk".