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Which Central Florida county has the highest transmission rate for STDs?

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The latest data from the Florida Department of Health shows a county-by-county breakdown of STD rates across the state in 2022.

In total, there were just over 170,000 reported cases, which is a roughly 2% increase from 2021.

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The data shows that northern counties like Gadsden, Leon and Hamilton had the worst transmission rates statewide.

Central Florida’s rates tended to skew a bit lower in comparison, though some counties in the region had higher numbers than others.

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According to the FDOH, Central Florida’s reported numbers for STD transmission that year were as follows:

  • Orange County had the highest rate for bacterial STDs, chlamydia, gonorrhea and infectious syphilis
  • Polk County had the second-highest rate for bacterial STDs, chlamydia and gonorrhea
  • Brevard County had the second-highest rate for infectious syphilis
  • Osceola County had the third-highest rate for bacterial STDs and chlamydia
  • Volusia County had the third-highest rate for gonorrhea
  • Polk County also had the third-highest rate for infectious syphilis

To avoid contracting an STD, state health officials offer the following tips:

  • Mutual monogamy: Only have sex with one other person whom you trust.
  • Use condoms: Condoms can protect you and your partner during intercourse.
  • Have fewer partners: The more sexual partners you have, the more you increase your risk of transmission.
  • Get vaccinated: Some STDs have vaccines available to prevent infection.
  • Get tested: Testing for an STD is the only way to know for sure whether you’ve contracted one.
  • Practice abstinence: Avoiding sex means avoiding STDs.

For more information on STDs or testing, visit the FDOH’s website here.


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