At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, many sexual health clinics altered their provided services and even temporarily closed their doors. But that was just the beginning. Finding sexual healthcare became even more challenging when hospitals and primary care providers limited visits to emergencies. Local health clinics were recruited to help with COVID-19 testing.
Months later, many health clinics have resumed regular operating hours. Individuals can once again receive non-emergent healthcare from hospitals and primary care physicians. But the CDC now estimates that tens of thousands of sexually transmitted diseases have gone undetected, specifically gonorrhea and chlamydia.
This is important for two reasons.
First, many health clinics and physicians may experience testing shortages because so many testing resources have been diverted to COVID-19 testing. For this reason, the CDC has advised physicians to ration testing kits and prioritize at-risk patients.
Secondly, STD rates will continue to climb. STDs can only be effectively treated with antibiotics, but in order to be treated, individuals must be tested. STD rates were already at an all-time high before COVID-19, and now months have passed without aggressive testing and treatment.
Where does this leave us?
Everyone can use safe sex practices during intercourse. This will dramatically cut down on the spread of disease.
But everyone should also seek to be routinely tested. This not only stops the spread of disease, but it also heals those with an STD to prevent future health effects. Learn more about the importance of testing below:
Private Testing Center is here to help with all your testing needs. We offer affordable and convenient testing in a constant effort to prevent the spread of Herpes, HIV and other STDs. We deliver fast results so any necessary treatment can happen quickly. Same Day appointments are available and with over 1500 locations nationwide, your closest location is only a short drive away. We understand your privacy is of the utmost importance and we assure confidentiality for every one of our customers.