Malta recorded over 350 cases of gonorrhea last year, with rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) increasing across all categories except chlamydia. Public health specialist Dr. Alexia Bezzina shared these statistics during an interview on Vi or Va on Radio Malta and TVM+, hosted by Albert Gauci Cunningham.

Dr. Bezzina highlighted the importance of education, awareness, and accessible contraceptives in tackling the issue. She noted that many cases remain unreported, meaning actual infection rates could be higher. Comparing current data to past trends, she explained that only 50 gonorrhea cases were reported in 2005, reflecting lower testing rates and stigma at the time.

Discussing HIV, Dr. Bezzina clarified that while cases have increased, 75% involved individuals identified abroad who were already undergoing treatment, which prevents further transmission. She announced that starting next year, the government will offer free access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) medications to combat HIV.

Dr. Bezzina also introduced the National Strategy for Sexual Health, which runs until 2030. As part of this strategy, mandatory education on STDs for individuals aged 16 to 18 will be implemented in schools and workplaces.

#MaltaDaily

A series of AI-generated images by the Instagram page Imaginary.Malta has sparked a wave of excitement, illustrating what Malta might look like if it hosted the Olympics. The visuals reimagine Malta as a bustling global hub, showcasing the islands’ potential to deliver an unforgettable experience.

The scenes depict Malta International Airport teeming with arrivals, with buses and taxis navigating busy roads as volunteers assist tourists. Accommodation in Valletta, St. Julian’s, and villages like Marsaxlokk appears fully booked, while restaurants serving traditional dishes such as rabbit stew and pastizzi are shown thriving amid long queues. Sliema and Valletta’s streets buzz with souvenir shops catering to eager visitors.

In the AI images, the opening ceremony unfolds at Valletta’s Grand Harbour, with a floating stage, fireworks, and traditional luzzu boats carrying flags. The Olympic flame burns atop St. Elmo Tower, blending Malta’s heritage with modernity.

Events are set against Malta’s iconic landmarks, from swimming at the Mediterranean Conference Centre to sailing in the Blue Lagoon. A finale features fireworks illuminating a reconstructed Azure Window, cementing the islands’ capacity to host a world-class event.

Imaginary.Malta’s vision reminds viewers of Malta’s unique charm, proving that even a small nation can dream big.

#MaltaDaily

As Christmas approaches, children eagerly await the magic of Santa Claus, believing that gifts will appear under the tree after his annual sleigh ride. But how did this story come to be, and was Santa Claus ever a real person?

The origins of the Santa Claus legend trace back to Dutch settlers in New York during the 17th century, who brought with them the tale of Sinterklaas. This figure, based on St. Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity, gradually transformed into the modern Santa Claus. Stories of St. Nicholas’s acts of kindness—such as secretly providing dowries for poor girls—were passed down through generations, eventually blending with other traditions and shaping the Santa Claus we know today.

However, the historical existence of St. Nicholas is still debated. While no contemporary records of him exist, some historians argue that his absence from early texts is not evidence of nonexistence. Recent discoveries, such as a 4th-century pelvic bone linked to St. Nicholas, offer a glimpse into the possibility that he may have been a real person. Despite this, the full truth behind the figure remains elusive.

So, was Santa Claus a real person? The answer largely depends on personal belief, as the mystery of his origins continues to captivate imaginations worldwide.

#MaltaDaily