Which Central Florida county has the highest transmission rate for STDs?

The latest data from the Florida Department of Health shows a county-by-county breakdown of STD rates across the state in 2022.

In total, there were just over 170,000 reported cases, which is a roughly 2% increase from 2021.

The data shows that northern counties like Gadsden, Leon and Hamilton had the worst transmission rates statewide.

Central Florida’s rates tended to skew a bit lower in comparison, though some counties in the region had higher numbers than others.

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According to the FDOH, Central Florida’s reported numbers for STD transmission that year were as follows:

• Orange County had the highest rate for bacterial STDs, chlamydia, gonorrhea and infectious syphilis

• Polk County had the second-highest rate for bacterial STDs, chlamydia and gonorrhea

• Brevard County had the second-highest rate for infectious syphilis

• Osceola County had the third-highest rate for bacterial STDs and chlamydia

• Volusia County had the third-highest rate for gonorrhea

• Polk County also had the third-highest rate for infectious syphilis

To avoid contracting an STD, state health officials offer the following tips:

• Mutual monogamy: Only have sex with one other person whom you trust.

• Use condoms: Condoms can protect you and your partner during intercourse.

• Have fewer partners: The more sexual partners you have, the more you increase your risk of transmission.

• Get vaccinated: Some STDs have vaccines available to prevent infection.

• Get tested: Testing for an STD is the only way to know for sure whether you’ve contracted one.

• Practice abstinence: Avoiding sex means avoiding STDs.

For more information on STDs or testing, visit the FDOH’s website here.

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