YOUNG people in County Durham are being encouraged to think about the consequences of chlamydia in a campaign launched this week.

The initiative, launched by the Durham and Darlington Chlamydia Screening Programme, encourages young people to ask of themselves, "Have I got it?" and to get tested.

Targeted at men and women aged under 25, who are at the greatest risk of infection, the campaign aims to teach them the risks of chlamydia and to signpost them to the new screening services in their area.

Sedgefield Primary Care Trust started the screening earlier this month and offered treatment on sexual health.

People are also being offered a simple, self-taken test in sexual health clinics across the area or can request a postal testing kit.

Chlamydia screening programme leader Lynn Wilson said: "It is important that young people find out as soon as possible if they have chlamydia as it may have long term consequences, including pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and infertility in men and women."

Contact the chlamydia screening service on 0191- 587 6016.