The Butler County and the Greenwood County Health Departments are seeing a surge in the number of cases of chlamydia, one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STD).
Since the beginning of the year, both counties have seen a marked increase in the number of chlamydia cases in both women and men. Many of these cases are in 16 to 24 year olds, but any age can be affected.
Health officials are concerned that this trend could continue over the next few months.
“If people are having unprotected sex, they are putting themselves and their partners at risk for unintended pregnancy, STDs, and HIV/AIDS,” according to Carol Borger, RN, Administrator of the Butler County Health Department.
In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released the results of a new study about STDs this week. The study showed that one in for teen girls in this country has a STD.
The STDs included in this study were the virus that causes cervical cancer, human papillomavirus (HPV), trichomoniasis, herpes, and chlamydia. If other STDs such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and HIV were also included, that number would be higher.
Chlamydia is easily transmitted by sexual contact, and can be spread from mother to baby during the birth process. If it is not treated, it can spread and cause severe pain and permanent damage to the reproductive system. This damage can make both women and men infertile, or unable to have a baby. It is the most common STD worldwide and often has no symptoms.
Testing is done with either a swab or a urine sample that is sent to the lab. Most health departments or health care providers can provide testing. The results are usually available in a few days. Chlamydia is curable with antibiotics. It is important for all partners to be treated as well.
The Health Department can provide assistance with notifying and treating partners for infection.
For more information on chlamydia, you can go to the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/the-facts/default.htm or contact the Butler County Health Department at 316-321-3400, 320-0365 (Wichita line) or Toll Free 1-800-940-6083 or the Greenwood County Health Department at 620-583-6632.
Augusta, Kan. —
