When it comes to STIs, you can choose to stay optimistic—or believe that using a condom will keep you safe. You can find information about infections on the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare’s website.

Ultimately, it comes down to each individual’s judgment. That said, I do question the wisdom of casually posting infection rates for STIs when you’re not a professional—though perhaps you are one. Even experts would probably find it quite difficult to determine the likelihood of contracting an STI, wouldn’t they? One supposedly reliable statistic is that the number of syphilis cases last year reached its highest level since records began. According to this morning’s Asahi Shimbun, cases are increasing this year at an even faster pace than last year. And syphilis isn’t the only STI. This is purely speculation on my part, but even as a layperson, I suspect that other STIs may be on the rise as well. In short, there’s no harm in being as careful as possible.