STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- After the city Health Department found new data that sexually transmitted diseases are still on the rise, a new campaign is being introduced to appeal to young, sexually active New Yorkers.
The new campaign is launching risque advertisements featuring emojis to encourage sexually transmitted infections testing on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, the Gay Ad Network, hookup app Grindr, bus shelters and subway cars across the five boroughs.
Emojis, such as the eggplant, water droplets and the peach -- which are widely used to represent sexual activities -- are used in posters and advertisements for the campaign.
The posters read, "Whether it's a fling or a serious thing... Get tested!"
From 2015 to 2016, New York City rates of syphilis increased by 27 percent, rates of gonorrhea rose by 13 percent and rates of chlamydia rose by six percent.
"The increase in rates of sexually transmitted infections is a disturbing national trend that has had a widespread impact on this city," said Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. "Fortunately, these infections are easily preventable and treatable when detected early. All sexually active New Yorkers should play safe, get screened regularly and have fun."
The campaign follows the city's "Bare It All," campaign that encourages residents to talk openly with their physicians about their sex lives, drug use and other issues affecting their health.
Most syphilis and gonorrhea cases are among men, while women continue to have the highest rates of chlamydia. All three can be cured with antibiotics. Increases can be contributed to more New Yorkers being tested for STIs.
To prevent STIs, the department recommends condom use and regular testing. Early this year, the city expanded clinical services and hours of operations at Sexual Health Clinics. Anyone 12 years or older can be tested for syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea and HIV at the clinics, even if they have no symptoms.