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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