Health bosses warn boozed-up Brits of an STI surge as fans head to the US for a World Cup hit by shocking ticket hikes and debauchery fears.
Horny football fans are being warned that the World Cup could cause a huge rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Brits are expected to lead a charge across the Atlantic next month when England and Scotland take part in the tournament.
But supporters have been told to tackle their urges after health experts warned a summer of sin could see cases soar. Officials reckon the number of STIs will surge when supporters visit the US and indulge in boozy celebrations and partying.
The New York City Health Department has now issued a red alert over the issue. While supporters of the Three Lions and members of the Tartan Army prepare for battle on the pitch, city officials are terrified of what’s happening in the bedrooms.
They’re bracing themselves for when throngs of tourists descend on the Big Apple from June 13 to July 19. The health department has warned medical providers of “travel-associated infectious diseases”, as well as “alcohol and substance use”.
In a health alert, the department said: “With an expected increase in visitors and mass gatherings, the NYC Health Department is preparing for an increased risk of public health events and possible increases in healthcare utilisation. NYC healthcare systems and healthcare providers should anticipate increases in heat-related illnesses, gastrointestinal illnesses, travel-associated infectious diseases, sexually transmitted infections and alcohol and substance use.”
Despite the warnings, thousands of boozed-up Brits are already packing their bags. Data shows the UK is leading the international charge, accounting for a staggering 18 per cent of all international bookings into the US, Canada and Mexico.
England fans are set to storm Texas for their opener against Croatia on June 17, before heading to the New York New Jersey Stadium on June 27 to face Panama. Meanwhile, Scotland fans will be taking over Boston for their clash against Haiti on June 13.
But it’s not just their health fans are risking – it’s their life savings. Supporters are fuming after it emerged that ticket prices have been hiked to shocking levels. The cheapest seats for England group games are currently a wallet-punishing $220 (£165) – a massive ten times the $21 (£15.70) price originally promised in the host bid.
If fans want to see the final, they’ll need to cough up a bankrupting $4,185 (£3,120). The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) slammed the prices as a “step too far,” but it seems even the eye-watering costs won’t stop the British faithful from heading Stateside for a bonk-fest.
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