LEON COUNTY, Fla. — A new report this week revealed Leon County leads the state in new cases of chlamydia.
It's alarming news for public health professionals who are working on educating the community.
"Sexually transmitted diseases are not unique to any community. They're everywhere," said Chris Tittel, Public Information Officer for Florida Department of Health in Leon County.
Bringing down the rates in Leon County has been a goal for years.
"At least one a day, maybe more, that are wanting the STD testing and requesting it," said Deborah Congdon, Nurse Practitioner at Care Point Health and Wellness.
Leon County ranks first in Florida for new chlamydia cases. The county is also seeing a rise in syphilis.
"We've seen an actual spike in those rates within the past couple of years, so what that causes us to do is take a look as to why that's the case," said Tittel.
There's no clear-cut answer, but public health professionals say what matters most is making sure people are educated.
"They need to make smart choices when they're out and engaging in whatever behavior it is," said Congdon.
The main advice is to use protection and get tested.
"Knowing your status, regardless of what STD it might be, is the best way to help protect yourself and others," said Tittel.
Those in public health say some people have hesitated to get help, sometimes out of fear or embarrassment.
"We, as health care workers, we don't look at it that way, you know? We're here to help people, and we're not here to judge people," said Tittel.
If you or someone you know wants to get tested, there are several ways to do that for free and discreetly.
You can get free STD testing daily at Roberts & Stevens Clinic (1515 Old Bainbridge Road) and Richardson-Lewis Health Center (872 West Orange Avenue) or STD testing every Tuesday and Thursday at Care Point Health and Wellness (2200 South Monroe Street).
Starting Monday, Care Point Health and Wellness will launch a campaign to encourage college students to get tested after returning from spring break.
