CHENANGO COUNTY – Nearly 20 million new sexually transmitted infections (STI) occur in the United States every year costing the American healthcare system nearly $16 billion in direct medical costs alone, according to a report by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

America’s youth shoulder a substantial burden of these infections. CDC estimates that half of all new STIs in the country occur among young men and women aged 15-24.

In high incidence of STIs in the general population suggests that many Americans are at risk of exposure to STIs, underscoring the need for prevention.

Despite this news, there are effective ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat STIs. Screening and early diagnosis are essential in presenting transmission and the long-term health consequences of STIs.

Chlamydia is on the rise in Chenango County. Most people with Chlamydia are symptom free and are unaware they have it. If left untreated, this disease can cause infertility in both men and women. Chlamydia is treated and cured with antibiotics.

Contact your local Family Planning (in Norwich, 334-6378), or your primary provider for information about being tested.

Abstaining from sex, reducing the number of sexual partners, and consistently and correctly using condoms are all effective prevention strategies.

For all individuals who are sexually active – particularly young people – STI screening and prompt treatment (if infected) are critical to protect a person’s health and prevent transmission to others.

More information about Chlamydia and other STIs is available at cdc.gov/std and cdcnpin.org/stdawareness/April2014.

Those with questions can contact the Chenango County Health Department at 337-1660.