Reduce STD rate

The Clark County has had a rise of the STI cases, including syphilis with over a 1000% over the last five years.  The use of drugs is the primary cause associated with the increase according to Vince Carter, a Health Educator.  He says it has an impact on the numbers sine people do things they wouldn’t have done when sober. The Clark County Combined Health District says the number of syphilis cases increased from four in 2011 to 46 last year. Hepatitis C has a 140% rise, Chlamydia with 40% and 113 cases of gonorrhea since that time. This year 142 cases of gonorrhea have been reported.

The health department’s statistics

Ohio department of health and statistics indicates that gonorrhea and syphilis are up with 8% and 40% respectively.  Syphilis is taking a fast increase as people infected are not aware they have it or are not concerned due to active addiction. The problem has no age or ethnic disparity making it hard to point out a particular group or city.  Carter who teaches recovering classes t addicts in Clark County Jail and McKinley Hall says that it is a widespread problem.

Over 13,000 condoms are provided annually by the health district annually to promote safe sex among the residents. The main reason behind it is to ensure that people use the right reduction tools since most of the people don’t want to quit risky behaviors according to Carter. Nursing Supervisor Kitty Smith noted that the Clark County health department received a $375000 grant to help in the expansion of reproductive health care.  The primary objective is to decrease the numbers as well as carry out more tests.  Smith hopes that the teens will learn about teen pregnancy and STD effects on unborn babies.

Important approaches to curbing the menace

Education is the essential primary strategy that can help reduce the numbers of STI cases in the community.  People spread the diseases due to lack of knowledge as well as ignorance, which can be unfortunate for their partners.  Carter suggests that one should get treated if they discover they got the symptoms since the STDs are curable and can be dangerous if left untreated.  Smith suggests that going back for test results is critical to avoid infecting partners. Medications are handled at the district hospitals freely once the patients get the results.

Dr Yamani Teegala a Medical Director at the Rocking Horse Community Health Center has noted the rise in STD cases. It serves people who cannot attend the district hospital.  He also adds that the bill that allows hospitals to treat partners of people infected with STIs will reduce the chances more infections.  It calls for Ohio residents with STIs to prescribe medicines to their partners without necessarily going to a physician after getting their test results.

People who turn out positive for the STD tests are always advised not to engage in sexual activities with their partners until they are treated.

 

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