HEALTH workers fear many young people may have chlamydia and not know about it.

Currently 11 per cent of people tested in Swindon are positive.

The PCT is urging people aged 16 to 25 to get tested for chlamydia to thwart rampant infections in the town.

Between 2005 and 2006 there was a 22 per cent rise in people testing positive in the town.

The PCT has made simple tests more widely available so screening for the sexual disease is easier.

It wants to make young people aware that they need to be screened.

Youth workers heard about the new screening programme at the University of Bath, Oakfield Campus on Wednesday.

PCT deputy director for health Lynda Warren said: "We have relatively high rates in Swindon, but it is a national problem - 11 per cent of screens are positive, but not enough have been tested.

"Swindon has a high pregnancy rate among young women so we would expect the level of sexually transmitted infections to be in line with that.

"Chlamydia has few symptoms but if left untreated can cause infertility in women, ectopic pregnancy and pelvic inflammatory disease. Ectopic pregnancy can be fatal and pelvic inflammatory disease is very painful."

The new simple test involves a self-swab for women and a urine sample from men.

The infection can be easily treated with antibiotics.

The PCT also plans to hold test days at colleges in the town.

Mara Davey, of Wiltshire and Swindon Men Sexual Health Services, said: "The new programme makes access to the test easier. Hopefully the right client base will be reached."

The PCT is also planning a poster campaign to make young people more aware of the dangers of the infection.

Using condoms helps reduce the risk and getting tested every year is recommended.

Chlamydia is one of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections and is easily passed on.

The infection usually infects the genitals of both men and women, but can also infect the throat, rectum and eyes. It is most common among young people, but can affect anyone who is sexually active.

For more details on where to go to get tested visit www.takethetestnow.co.uk or call the chlamydia screening office on 01793 428516.