Sexually Transmitted Infections: Assessment and Treatment

Course overview

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have been a serious problem in the U.S., and newly reported cases continue to be high, even throughout the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2022f). Rates for gonorrhea, syphilis, and congenital syphilis are higher than in 2016. However, the CDC suggests that transmission rates should be interpreted cautiously and with the understanding that COVID-19 significantly impacted STI surveillance, screening, and prevention due to a strained public health infrastructure. Furthermore, due to the asymptomatic nature of some STIs, it is estimated that a significant number of affected people remain undiagnosed. Therefore, all healthcare providers should be knowledgeable about STIs and provide appropriate education to prevent transmission and manage the infection.