Virginia STD Surveillance report reveals importance of regular testing

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) – On the heels of a CDC report, monitoring sexually transmitted ailments, Richmond – Henrico Well being Districts is out with its personal numbers.

Henrico County noticed a 26% improve in gonorrhea instances from 2016 to 2020. The Metropolis of Richmond, nonetheless with excessive numbers, truly noticed a 4% drop throughout that very same time.

“The truth that there are instances on the market, we wish to be sure that these persons are capable of get examined and are capable of get handled,” mentioned Bradley Cox, RHHD STD Program Coordinator.

Circumstances of syphilis in Henrico skyrocketed by 52% over these 5 years. In Richmond it went up nearly 7%. However, town at present maintains the best syphilis numbers within the commonwealth.

RHHD STD Program Coordinator Bradley Cox says they’d wish to see extra folks getting examined and make it extra mainstream.

“Completely I feel stigma is a large issue while you have a look at the charges of improve of STIs. I feel it’s one thing that we’re not essentially comfy speaking about both with our companions and even our docs,” mentioned Cox.

Chlamydia instances have dropped throughout your complete state. In Richmond, the speed decreased 17% over 5 years. Henrico noticed a smaller drop by 1.8%.

However well being leaders warning these numbers might be off as a result of it may be much less symptomatic which may result in fewer folks coming in to be examined.

“We’ve bought a workforce of people that do actual on the bottom work locally, speaking to folks, ensuring they’ll get entry to these testing and therapy sources and making these referrals,” mentioned Cox.

RHHD provides free STD screening by appointment solely, Mondays and Fridays from 8 AM till midday. Name 804-381-2616 for extra data.

Nationz Basis provides free companies from 10 AM till 6 PM, Monday by means of Friday. Name them at 804-716-7597 ext. 4.

Well being Brigade is open from 9 AM till 5 PM, Monday by means of Friday. Name them at 804-358-6343.

Minority Well being Consortium has various hours and could be reached at 804-225-0820.

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