Sexually transmissible infections (STIs) are infections passed from one person to another though sexual activity. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex, sharing sex toys, or close sexual contact. The most  common STIs are caused by a virus or bacteria.

  • Chlamydia

    Chlamydia is the most common STI in young people in Australia.


  • Syphilis

    Syphilis is easy to cure but without treatment can cause serious health problems, particularly during pregnancy.

  • Gonorrhoea

    Gonorrhoea is a common STI that you mainly get in the vagina, penis, anus or throat.

  • Genital warts and HPV

    Genital warts are caused by HPV. Most infections are harmless, but some can lead to cancers.

  • Herpes

    Herpes is one of the most common STIs and spreads easily.

  • HIV

    With early diagnosis and access to treatment, most people living with HIV can have healthy and normal lives.

Other STIs and reproductive tract infections

We've covered a few of the most common STIs, but there are others.

Read more about these infections, what causes them and how they're treated on Queensland and Australian Government websites below.

Last updated: May 2024