Jamaica has experienced an increase in sexually transmitted infections in 2024, with young adults aged 20-24 being the most affected, primarily due to low condom use and multiple partners. Women account for the majority of cases, and the rise includes infections like gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis. Despite the increase in STI cases, HIV new infections have slightly declined, and the overall HIV prevalence remains steady at 1.1%. Health authorities emphasize prevention through safe sex practices and regular testing.
Chlamydia is the most common bacterial STI worldwide and in the US, often asymptomatic but easily treatable with antibiotics. Regular testing, condom use, and partner notification are key to prevention and control.
Cases of gonorrhoea, a Biblical STI, have doubled in England over the past decade, with high rates among young people and in London, prompting warnings for students to use protection and get tested, despite a recent decline in cases.
A woman in Alaska died from a rare complication of gonorrhea, raising concerns about emerging strains that may cause more severe infections and are less detectable, with a recent spike in disseminated gonococcal infections and increasing antibiotic resistance. Health officials advise proactive testing and awareness, especially for those with multiple partners.
Recent data from the CDC shows a significant decline in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the U.S., with a 7% reduction in gonorrhea and a 10% decrease in syphilis cases between 2022 and 2023. This progress is attributed to increased public health funding during the Covid-19 pandemic, which bolstered STI testing and prevention efforts. However, experts express concern over potential policy changes under the Trump administration that could reverse these gains, particularly with anticipated cuts to reproductive health services and public health funding.
The US is experiencing an "out-of-control" epidemic of sexually transmitted infections, with syphilis cases rising by 80% in the past five years. Congenital syphilis, which affects babies, has surged by 937% over the past decade, causing severe health issues and deaths. Public health officials are calling for urgent action and increased funding to address the crisis, but current federal budgets show no increase in STI funding for the CDC.
A college student new to the gay dating scene experiences intense anxiety about contracting STIs despite practicing safe sex. The advice given includes seeking therapy to manage anxiety, exploring underlying shame, and employing coping strategies like mindfulness and positive self-talk to enjoy sexual experiences without fear.
An early-stage clinical trial for a chlamydia vaccine has shown promising results, with the experimental vaccine found to be safe and induce an immune response. Chlamydia, the most common bacterial STI in the United States, can lead to infertility and vision loss. The next phase of studies will focus on the vaccine's ability to prevent infection and its effectiveness. If successful, the vaccine could offer protection against chlamydia in both the reproductive system and the eyes.
The Calmara.ai app, which claims to use AI to detect STIs in penis photos, has been criticized by privacy and public health experts for its flimsy consent verification, potential to receive child pornography, and over-reliance on images to screen for conditions. Tests showed the app to be inaccurate, unreliable, and prone to stigmatizing information. Medical experts emphasize the need for accurate and ethical digital health tools in sexual healthcare, expressing concerns about Calmara's potential to further stigmatize STIs and digital health.
CDC data reveals a significant increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among adults over 55, with syphilis cases rising seven-fold, gonorrhea cases nearly quintupling, and chlamydia cases tripling from 2012 to 2022. Factors such as increased sexual activity, lack of comprehensive sex education, and new partnerships in settings like nursing homes contribute to the heightened STI transmission risks in this age group.
Duval County ranks third in Florida for gonorrhea cases, with 442 cases per 100,000 people. The CDC reports that the infection spreads easily, especially among sexually active individuals aged 15-24 and those with multiple partners. Dr. Ali Kasraeian, a Jacksonville urologist, emphasizes the importance of seeking treatment, as half of infected individuals may not show symptoms. The Duval County Department of Health is collaborating with community partners to provide education and testing at events, while doctors advise reducing sexual partners and seeking immediate medical attention if in doubt.
Hillsborough County in Florida is among the counties with the highest rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the state, with chlamydia rates nearly doubling since 2000 and gonorrhea rates increasing by 50%. The CDC reports that syphilis rates are reaching levels last seen in the 1950s. Condom use has decreased among various populations, and public health efforts are now advocating for additional methods such as PrEP pills to lower the risk of contracting HIV. The CDC recommends annual testing for certain groups and some public health groups advocate for testing among all people regardless of sex and sexual orientation. Data from the CDC shows the STI infection rates in Florida compared nationally, with counties ranked by the rate of chlamydia infections.
Author Annaleise Easlea shares her struggle with mental health after being diagnosed with HSV-2, emphasizing the lack of understanding and support for those with herpes. She encourages regular STI testing and advocates for better mental health support for those diagnosed. Easlea uses her experience to raise awareness and debunk misconceptions about herpes, highlighting the importance of early detection and access to non-judgmental sexual health services.
Syphilis cases are at a 74-year high in the United States, with a 90% increase among women in Seattle and King County between 2020 and 2022. The surge in infections is most prominent among men who have sex with men, but women are also contracting the infection with increasing frequency, often asymptomatically. Factors contributing to the rise include decreased access to quality sexual health care, cuts to funding for sexual health care and public health programs, and decreased awareness about the disease among individuals and healthcare providers. Public Health – Seattle and King County recommends testing for sexually active individuals, injection drug users, those dealing with homelessness, and others at risk.
A billboard in Jacksonville is raising awareness about the dangers of maternal syphilis rates during pregnancy, which have more than tripled from 2016 to 2022 according to the CDC. The billboard aims to encourage pregnant women to get screened for syphilis, as the infection can be passed on to the baby and lead to serious health issues. The city's Chief Health Officer emphasized the importance of safe sex practices and regular STI checks during prenatal visits to prevent congenital syphilis, which is entirely treatable with penicillin if detected early.
