STI rates rise ‘significantly’ in NYC, officials step up testing

The post-COVID kink could create a new public health crisis.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have risen significantly across the Big Apple after lockdown restrictions were lifted, new data from the New York City Department of Health shows.

The agency’s statistics show that chlamydia cases increased by 9% between 2020 and 2021, while the number of women diagnosed with primary and secondary syphilis increased by 28.7%.

The “significant” rise in infections has prompted officials to ask suggestive residents to get tested urgently to stop further spread.

Some centers are now using lab equipment used for COVID testing to screen for chlamydia and gonorrhea, the department said in a news release about the rise in infections.

“Reconnecting is healthy, and as New York City reopens, residents have reconnected,” officials said. “We encourage New Yorkers to stay active — but STIs are on the rise in New York City, so protect yourself and your partner by getting tested.”

“The city that never sleeps shouldn’t have to wait for STI results,” the press release continued. “Find quickie tests.”

The new data shows that the chlamydia rate increased by 13.2% in men and 5.2% in women between 2020 and 2021.

Disturbingly, in 2021, about a quarter of all female chlamydia cases were in 10- to 19-year-olds.

In addition to the increase in women testing positive for primary and secondary syphilis, the health department also noted a “significant increase” in cases of congenital syphilis.

In 2020 there were 17 confirmed cases of congenital syphilis, while that number rose to 24 the following year.

Meanwhile, the department noted that “racial and ethnic inequalities persist in the distribution of STIs in New York City.”

According to the data, the rate of reported primary and secondary syphilis cases among black New Yorkers was 2.9 times that of white New Yorkers.

Officials believe COVID lockdowns aimed at “stopping” the spread of the coronavirus may also have helped halt the spread of STIs in 2020.

They also claim that access to STI testing may have been hampered in the first year of the pandemic, which is why the 2020 numbers could be lower.

However, many naughty New Yorkers vowed to have a “kinky summer” of casual sex in 2021, which could have contributed to a spike in infections.

Whatever the case, doctors are urging every sexually active New Yorker to get tested, whether they’ve been bed hopping or not.

“Whether it’s an affair or something serious, STI testing is recommended for all New Yorkers,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Less waiting time means less stress. Our rapid tests are helping New Yorkers stay safe. Get tested today.”

Councilor Lynn Schulman, Chair of the Health Committee, added, “As we recover from the worst public health crisis of our lives, it’s important to respond quickly to the increase in diseases and illnesses occurring in New York City, including sexually.” communicable diseases. ”

“I’m glad the health department is … increasing rapid testing to diagnose STDs and treat people who need sexual health services.”