The Need

In 2019, for the sixth consecutive year, sexually transmitted infections were at an all-time high.¹ Among the most prevalent and treatable infections are Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV). The need for STI testing has intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic due to competing demands on the public health and clinical testing sectors. Failure to diagnose and treat STIs may lead to longer term health consequences in both men and women, as well as contribute to the spread of these infections to sexual partners. Gay and Bisexual men may be at higher risk; for example, in some areas, gonorrhea rates are 42 times that of heterosexual men.²

1. www.cdc.gov/std
2. www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/p0413-stds.html