Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)
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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are very common. These infections can be caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites and are spread through vaginal, oral, and anal sex. It is important to get tested regularly since symptoms are not always present. Knowing your status and learning how to prevent STIs will keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy. All STIs are preventable and treatable – most infections can be completely cured.
Syphilis is currently on the rise in the U.S., and the American Indian and Alaska Native populations are disproportionately affected compared to other races and ethnicities. IHS is adopting a "syndemic approach" to combat rising cases of HIV, Hepatitis C, and STIs. This means we are no longer viewing these infections in silos but rather providing comprehensive care to our patients with all of these in mind.
News, Events, and Publications
- The National Pharmacy Council Syndemic Committee has released three resource guides for pharmacists who want to implement HIV, Hepatitis C, and STI care into their clinical pharmacy practice, May 2025.
- The CDC released recommendations for Antiretroviral Postexposure Prophylaxis After Sexual, Injection Drug Use, or Other Nonoccupational Exposure to HIV, May 2025.
- CDC also released clinical recommendations regarding the use of doxycycline postexposure prophylaxis for bacterial sexually transmitted infection prevention, June 2024
- The IHS National Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee (NPTC) is sharing a medication update regarding the recent issuance of the CDC Clinical Guidelines on the Use of Doxycycline Postexposure Prophylaxis for Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention, June 2024.
- Indian Health Service Chief Medical Officer's Syphilis Epidemic Letter [PDF - 171 KB], February 2024.
