Dating websites and apps linked to rise in syphilis cases

An increase in cases of syphilis across Wales could be linked to the use of dating websites and mobile phone apps for casual sex, according to Public Health Wales.

Thirty-nine cases of the bacterial infection have been reported in North Wales since the middle of 2013, compared with a usual average of around seven per year.

In South Wales, 55 cases have been reported so far this year.

A Public Health Wales spokesperson said: "There is evidence that the infection is spreading particularly quickly in people who use dating websites and apps to meet other people for casual sex."