MSDH Promotes STI Awareness Week: Talk, Test & Treat to Protect Your Sexual Health 

Jackson, Miss. — Mississippi has one of the highest rates of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in the nation. Yet they are often preventable and treatable. During STI Awareness Week, April 12-18, the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) implores you to take control of your sexual health with three simple steps: Talk, Test and Treat.

By age 25, half of all sexually active people will contract at least one STI, and most won’t show any symptoms, according to the National Coalition for Sexual Health. Untreated STIs can lead to serious health problems, including increased risk of HIV infection, long-term pelvic/abdominal pain, pregnancy complications and potential infertility.

This is why “Talk, Test and Treat” matters. Talking to your partner about their sexual history, getting routine testing, and when needed, receiving treatment is not only important to your health, but also for the health of your partner and future children.

The data below show changes in STI infections in Mississippi from 2024 through 2025:

• 2.4% increase in chlamydia
• 0.6 % decrease in gonorrhea
• 21.9% decrease in syphilis
• 48% decrease in syphilis among newborns
• 4.9 % decrease in HIV

Condom use is a prevention strategy for STI and HIV, but remember, condom use alone is not 100% effective in avoiding STIs or HIV. Talk to your provider about Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), which when taken as directed, is proven to reduce the risk of obtaining HIV. MSDH health department clinics distribute free condoms and assist patients in getting funding for PrEP if they cannot afford to pay. The visit for PrEP medication can be completed in-person or via Telehealth.

Sexually active people can easily, unintentionally share STIs, including HIV, with others. Testing to see if you have been infected is quick, confidential and affordable with an appointment with your provider or at an MSDH county health department clinic near you. Call (855) 767-0170 to schedule an appointment.

Need help starting the conversation? Visit bit.ly/OwnTheAwkSTIs and thisfact sheet for tips on talking openly about sexual health with your partner.