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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Program Manager

About Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)

What is an STD?

STDs are diseases that are usually passed through sexual contact with an infected partner. STDs include many diseases such as HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Genital Herpes, Genital Warts, Hepatitis and Syphilis. STDs are widespread; more than 12 million people in the US are infected each year.

How is an STD spread?

STDs are spread though contact with:

  • infected body fluids, such as blood, vaginal secretions, or semen
  • infected skin or mucous membranes - for example, sores in the mouth

STDs can be spread during close sexual contact, e.g.; vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Most STD germs need to live in warm and often moist areas of the body, such as the mouth, anus, vagina or penis. Having an STD can make you more likely to get HIV.

What should you do if you suspect you may have an STD?

Get tested right away if you think you have any symptoms, or think you've been exposed to an STD (even if you have no symptoms, talk about your STD testing needs with your doctor during your health care visits). Remember, many STDs don't have any symptoms, especially in women.

Remember: If you have an STD, seek proper medical care immediately! Home remedies can make an accurate diagnosis difficult! For more information about STDs: https://www.cdc.gov/std/.

To schedule an appointment, please contact our STD department (772) 462-3815.