Protect Yourself

Sexually transmitted diseases and infections can affect every aspect of life for those affected and their loved ones. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), like chlamydia, can do permanent damage to the female reproductive system. Since 2006, STD and sexual transmitted infection (STI) rates have been steadily rising, according to the Center for Disease Control.
Chadron State is no exception to increased STD/STI rates. Dawes County has the highest rate of chlamydia in Nebraska. The average chlamydia rate for Nebraska is 366.2 per 100,000 but Dawes County has 445.8 per 100,000, according to the CDC.
“One in two sexually active persons will contract an STD/STI by age 25,” the American Sexual Health Association (ASHS) states.
Living in an area, like Dawes County, with elevated STD/STI rates puts sexually-active people at higher risk of contracting a disease. Knowing how to prevent infection is paramount to protecting against STD/STI.
Preventative measures against contracting STD/STI are contraceptives, vaccinations, abstinence, and mutual monogamy. The use of contraceptives, like condoms, provides an extra barrier to reduce STD/STI exposure. People with a latex allergy can use non-latex condoms to help prevent infection.
Vaccinations for Human papillomavirus infection (HPV) are available for both men and women and are recommended by the Center for Disease Control for teens through the early 20’s. Abstinence can ensure that exposure to STD/STI does not happen. Mutual monogamy can prevent infection because both partners are no longer exposed to a potentially new disease. Getting screened for STD/STI is important in mutual monogamy to make sure neither partner is already infected.
STD/STI screening is available at local medical clinics and organizations like Western Community Health Resources. Knowing if you carry a disease or infection can prevent accidental exposure to sexual partners. If you do carry a STD/STI, communicating with sexual partners is vital to help reduce national STD rates.