Why is infectious disease data important? (STDs, TB)
STDs
Roughly 20 million new STD infections are diagnosed each year in the United States, with more than 40,000 occurring in Washington State alone. State and national STD rates are at an all time high and rising. If left untreated, STDs can lead to serious long-term health consequences including chronic pain, neurological problems, increased risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV infection and severe reproductive health complications. In addition to their negative toll on overall health, they also cost the health care system a lot of money nationwide. STDs often don't present any symptoms, contributing to high transmission rates. Regular screening is important to make sure infections are promptly detected and treated.
Tuberculosis
According to the CDC, tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a bacteria and infects the lungs and at times other parts of the body like the kidney, spine and brain. If not treated it can be fatal. It is a leading cause of death worldwide.
View the Data
Sexually Transmitted Disease Data
Additional Resources
Get Tested, national HIV, STD and Hepatitis testing - CDC
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For information or questions related to the Washington Tracking Network, email DOH.WTN@doh.wa.gov.
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