The Florida Department of Health in Polk County (DOH-Polk) recognizes April as National Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Awareness Month. This month is an opportunity for individuals, doctors, and communities to address ways to prevent STDs. Studies show, 50% of those who are sexually active will get an STD by the time they are 25 years old.

“Unfortunately, the rates of STDs have been trending upwards over the past few years in Florida and in Polk County,” said Dr. Joy Jackson, Director of DOH-Polk. “As a result, we are seeing a need for heightened awareness and increased testing.”

In Polk County, 62% (2,532) of reported STD cases occurred in those 15-24 years old. This is 2% higher than the state level and 10% higher than the national level for this age group.

In order to address this concern, DOH-Polk is partnering with community groups like The Teen Pregnancy Prevention Alliance (TPPA) to bring an STD awareness campaign to Polk’s youth. This consists of a social media campaign that will target people 15-24 years of age.

For more information about STD Awareness Month, visit the CDC STI Awareness Month page.

For more information regarding STD testing and treatment services at the Florida Department of Health in Polk County, visit the website at www.mypolkhealth.org.