The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has just dropped a reality check: more than 2.3 million Americans are living with gonorrhoea, chlamydia, or syphilis and the rates are climbing so high, it’s now officially a nationwide epidemic.A 2023 CDC report paints a troubling picture. Chlamydia takes the top spot with 1.64 million infections, gonorrhoea follows at over 601,000, and syphilis, once on the brink of eradication, is making a bold and unwelcome comeback. In Mississippi alone, congenital syphilis (passed from mother to baby during pregnancy) has skyrocketed by a staggering 1,000 per cent. While its growth slowed slightly in the past year, the overall trend remains deeply worrying.But what is driving this surge? Experts point to a mix of factors: dwindling sex education, earlier sexual activity among teens, gaps in prenatal care, and the fact that many people do not recognise symptoms until it is too late. What do these bacteria look like on humans? Here is a breakdown of the three: ChlamydiaSigns and symptomsIn women: Often none at all, but when they do appear, they bring abnormal vaginal discharge, pain during sex, or a burning sensation while peeing. Left untreated, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.In men: Pain or burning during urination, penile discharge, and testicular pain. Some men also have no symptoms.Risk factorsBeing under 25 and sexually activeMultiple sexual partnersInconsistent or no condom useHow it spreadsThrough vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone infected, even if they do not have symptoms.Prevention and Treatment Consistent condom use; regular screening, especially if you are under 25 or have multiple partners; and limiting the number of sexual partners. Usually, a straightforward course of antibiotics is prescribed, but both partners must be treated to prevent ping-pong reinfection.GonorrhoeaSigns and symptomsIn women: Painful urination, increased vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or bleeding between periods. Sometimes, no symptoms at all.In men: Pain when urinating, pus-like penile discharge, or swelling in one testicle. Risk factorsAge under 25 and sexually activeMultiple partners or a new partner without protectionPrevious history of STDsHow it spreadsThrough vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. It can also pass from mother to baby during childbirth.Prevention and Treatment Condoms, regular testing, and talking openly with partners about sexual health. Reportedly, a single antibiotic injection is currently the go-to. It is important to note that gonorrhoea has been developing resistance to many antibiotics, making prevention even more important.SyphilisSigns and symptomsIn early stages: A single, painless sore on the genitals, anus, or mouth, and swollen lymph nodes.In later stages: Skin rashes, fever, fatigue, and, if untreated, damage to the brain, nerves, and heart.Congenital syphilis: Passed from mother to baby in the womb, leading to stillbirth, premature birth, or serious health issues in newborns.Risk factorsUnprotected sexMultiple partnersMen who have sex with menLack of prenatal careHow it spreadsThrough direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex, or from mother to baby during pregnancy.Prevention and Treatment Regular STD testing, consistent condom use, and early prenatal screening for pregnant women. Penicillin injections are simple and effective, but only if caught early.The surge in STD cases across the US is not just about risky behaviour; it is about gaps in education, healthcare, and awareness. Many people carry these infections without knowing, passing them on silently. It is clear that one should get tested regularly, use protection, and if you are diagnosed, complete your treatment and tell your partner.
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