April is Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Awareness Month
Nearly 20 million new sexually transmitted infections (STIs) occur in the United States every year, costing the American healthcare system nearly $16 billion in direct medical costs alone, states a report by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2016, Howard County chlamydia and gonorrhea rates were the highest they had been in 10 years. Chlamydia rates increased more than 300% from 62 (1996) to 271 (2016). Gonorrhea rates increased 13% during the same period.
America’s youth shoulder a substantial burden of these infections. CDC estimates that half of all new STIs in the U.S. occur among young men and women aged 15 to 24. In Howard County during 2016, youth ages 15-19 represented only 6% of the population, but were disproportionately affected by STIs. In fact, 29% of youth ages 15-19 tested positive for chlamydia and 14% for gonorrhea.
For all individuals who are sexually active – particularly young people – STI screening and prompt treatment are critical to protect one’s health and prevent transmission to others. The Health Department provides free screening and treatment for those under 21 years of age. Call 410-313-7500 or visit the HCHD STI Program page.
Resources:
1st Annual Home Run for Recovery Softball Tournament
The Home Run for Recovery Softball Tournament will be held on:
Saturday, May 5, 2017 at Centennial Park North from 10:30-3:00. Teams representing those in recovery will play against teams representing government agencies. Come celebrate recovery and cheer on the players! Click here for more information!
Click on the image above to register!
It's Still Flu Season
To protect yourself from the flu you should:
- Get a flu shot!
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
- If you are sick with flu symptoms, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs are spread this way.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.
More information about avoiding the flu may be found at:
Featured Video
Howard County native, David Nix, talks about his experience with substance misuse.