Based
on newly released documents from the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, there are unverified allegations that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates contracted a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Screenshots from the alleged 2013 self-emails attributed to claim that Gates contracted a sexually transmitted disease from “Russian girls” and asked for antibiotics to secretly give to his then-wife, Melinda. While the allegations have not been verified and are heavily disputed by context and prior denials from Gates, they were found among a new tranche of hundreds of thousands of documents released by the US Department of Justice.
What is claimed but not confirmed
Mentions of STDs in the context of Epstein-related reporting often arise from secondary accounts, hearsay, or commentary rather than clinical records. Publicly available materials do not constitute proof of a diagnosis, nor do they reliably identify a specific infection tied to any named person. Health information is private, and responsible reporting distinguishes between documented facts and allegations.
What are STDs?
STDs are conditions that you can get from any kind of sexual activity involving your mouth, anus, vagina, or penis. The most common symptoms are burning, itching, or discharge in your genital area. Some STDs are asymptomatic, meaning you may not have any symptoms. According to the
Cleveland Clinic, STDs are highly contagious. If you are sexually active, you can have it and pass it on without even knowing it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends regular screenings or testing if you are sexually active.
Common STDs to know about
A few common and well-known STDs and infections include:
Chlamydia and Gonorrhea
Bacterial infections that are asymptomatic, especially in men. Doctors say they are treatable with antibiotics when detected early, but can cause complications if untreated.
Syphilis
Another bacterial STD that progresses in stages and can be easily treated early; however, late-stage disease can be serious.
Herpes (HSV-1/HSV-2)
It is a viral infection that causes recurrent sores. Herpes has no cure, but antivirals help control symptoms and reduce transmission.
HPV or Human Papillomavirus
It is an extremely common infection that is high-risk and is linked to cancers like cervical cancer. Doctors say vaccination against it offers strong protection.
Also read: 'Dismissed With Utmost Contempt': India Denies Allegations in Epstein Files, Defends PM Modi's 2017 Israel Visit
What causes STDs?
Sexually transmitted diseases develop when various bacteria, viruses, or parasites infect your body. You can get these microorganisms from bodily fluids - like blood, urine, semen, saliva, and other mucous-lined areas - during sex, usually vaginal, oral, and anal sex, or other sexual activities.
Are STDs contagious?
Studies published by the
National Institutes of Health say that STDs are highly contagious and extremely dangerous. Most of them are passed from one person to another by sexual contact through bodily fluids or from skin-to-skin contact by touching the infected part of a person’s body, usually the genitals. Some diseases, such as syphilis, can also be spread while giving birth to a baby. If you have an STD, it is important to visit a doctor immediately to receive treatment. You can prevent the spread by getting tested regularly if you’re sexually active, talking to your sexual partners about your diagnosis, and using protection during sex.