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DOH-Volusia - Rate of Sexually Transmitted Disease in Volusia Remains High

February 19, 2018

Daytona Beach - Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are on the rise in Volusia County according to a new report released by the Department of Health in Volusia County (DOH-Volusia). The report looks at disease rates for chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis.

The two-page data brief is online at volusiahealth.com/stats and contains data from 2013 to 2017.

Chlamydia and gonorrhea cases are not equally distributed among Volusia's population. They are highest among those 10-29 years old, blacks, and residents in three East Volusia County zip codes.

Syphilis rates - which have been on the rise since 2013, decreased slightly last year.

All three STDs are treatable with antibiotics. If not treated, they can have long-term consequences. Pregnant women with any of these diseases can affect the health of their baby.

Often these diseases have no symptoms and are not treated. This not only has consequences for the infected person, but it also increases disease spread to others. DOH-Volusia encourages healthcare providers to conduct routine testing for all sexually active people - especially teenagers and those in their 20s, to detect asymptomatic cases and stop the progression of the disease.

All sexually active people are at risk of acquiring an STD but can reduce their risk by:

  • Practicing abstinence

  • Using condoms

  • Getting vaccinated for HPV

  • Reducing the number of sexual partners

  • Getting tested and treated

  • Talking to your partner.

The DOH-Volusia report does not analyze for cause and effect relationships. The Department prepares these types of health reports for use by community partners who serve various populations or address health risks. Reports also help to raise awareness among the general public, according to Patricia Boswell, DOH-Volusia administrator.

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