Reminder from Santa Barbara County Public Health Department: Get tested for STIs

STI Awareness Week is being recognized by the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department (SBCPHD), the California Department of Public Health, and the CDC starting April 14. This observance aims to raise awareness about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in order to reduce stigma and increase knowledge about how to treat, prevent, and test for them.

During the pandemic, cases of gonorrhea and syphilis in Santa Barbara County have increased according to SBCPHD records for 2022. To address this issue, the county is urging sexually active individuals to take precautions. They recommend talking openly and honestly with healthcare providers about sexual health and STIs, as well as discussing testing with partners before engaging in sexual activity.

Furthermore, it is advised to use condoms correctly for every act of vaginal, anal, and oral sex and to get tested regularly to know your STI and HIV status. Those who test positive for an STI should work with their healthcare providers to receive treatment, as all STIs are treatable. Additional information about sexual health can be found on the SBCPHD website.

If you would like to share a story idea or engage in the conversation around STI awareness, News Channel 3-12 encourages respectful and relevant comments, following their Community Guidelines. You can submit story ideas on their website.