Florida’s STD Rates: How the Sunshine State Compares Nationally

With a population as big and diverse as Florida’s, public health data is key to finding out what’s trending and where in the state. For years STDs have been a growing public health issue, affecting people and communities from big cities to small coastal towns. Here’s the latest stats and rates for Florida and where they impact.

Overview of STD Rates and Cases in Florida

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) remain a significant public health challenge in Florida, which consistently ranks among the states with the highest case numbers. According to the latest data from the CDC, Florida is grappling with concerning rates for several common STDs. Below are the total new cases reported in 2023:

• Chlamydia: 112,744 new cases
• Gonorrhea: 46,707 new cases
• Early Non-Primary, Non-Secondary Syphilis: 5,667 new cases
• Primary and Secondary Syphilis: 4,365 new cases
• HIV Diagnoses: 4,478 new cases

Comparing Florida STD Statistics to National Averages

According to the Florida Department of Health, Florida’s STD statistics show both challenges and growth opportunities for public health initiatives. While some infections may rank lower nationally, the sheer volume of cases presents a clear cause for concern. Here’s how Florida compares to other states:

• High Volume of Cases: Florida ranks 3rd nationally for new HIV diagnoses, a figure that underscores the state’s urgent need for intervention and prevention strategies. Similarly, its 4th-place ranking for early syphilis cases indicates the disease’s prevalence is particularly high compared to other states.
• Mixed Trends: While Florida ranks lower for chlamydia (21st) and gonorrhea (11th), the sheer number of cases—over 112,000 for chlamydia alone—suggests these infections remain widespread.
• Prevention Challenges: Targeted Public Health Campaigns tailored to the state’s population are crucial.

How Do the Largest Counties in Florida Rank for STD Rates?

Florida’s largest counties, such as Miami-Dade, Broward, Hillsborough, Orange, and Palm Beach, contribute significantly to the state’s overall STD statistics. For example, in 2023:

• Miami-Dade County reported 15,828 chlamydia cases, 7,579 gonorrhea cases, 753 primary and secondary syphilis cases, and 1,026 new HIV diagnoses.
• Broward County recorded 13,680 chlamydia cases, 6,752 gonorrhea cases, 455 primary and secondary syphilis cases, and 557 new HIV diagnoses.
• Hillsborough County reported 3,871 chlamydia cases, 5,900 gonorrhea cases, 408 primary and secondary syphilis cases, and 358 new HIV diagnoses.
• Orange County documented 4,083 chlamydia cases, 6,800 gonorrhea cases, 272 primary and secondary syphilis cases, and 474 new HIV diagnoses.
• Palm Beach County had 7,017 chlamydia cases, 2,220 gonorrhea cases, 180 primary and secondary syphilis cases, and 271 new HIV diagnoses.

Chlamydia Rates and Cases in Florida

Chlamydia is a prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. Often symptomless, it can lead to complications like infertility if untreated. Regular screening and early detection are crucial for effective management, as highlighted by the Florida Department of Health.

The infection remains the most commonly reported sexually transmitted disease (STD) in Florida, accounting for a significant share of the state’s STD cases. In 2023, Florida reported 112,744 new cases of chlamydia, translating to a rate of 577.1 cases per 100,000 residents. These figures place Florida 21st nationally in chlamydia rates.

Among Florida’s largest counties, Broward County reported the highest chlamydia rate in 2023 at 697.1 cases per 100,000, followed by Orange County at 690.7 cases per 100,000. Palm Beach County had the lowest rate among the major counties, at 457.5 cases per 100,000.

Chlamydia disproportionately affects young adults, particularly those aged 15–24, who account for the majority of new cases. This underscores the importance of education and prevention efforts targeting this demographic. Untreated chlamydia can lead to severe complications, including infertility. However, the disease is easily treatable with antibiotics when diagnosed early.

Gonorrhea Rates and Cases in Florida

Gonorrhea is a bacterial sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It primarily affects young adults and poses a significant public health challenge due to its increasing antibiotic resistance. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as infertility. Public health efforts emphasize regular screening and the proper use of condoms to reduce transmission.

Gonorrhea is the second most reported STD in Florida, with 46,707 new cases in 2023 and a statewide rate of 239.1 cases per 100,000 residents, placing Florida 11th nationally.

Among Florida’s largest counties, Broward County reported the highest gonorrhea rate at 344.0 cases per 100,000, followed by Miami-Dade County at 282.1 cases per 100,000. Palm Beach County had the lowest rate among these counties, at 144.7 cases per 100,000.

In Florida, Gonorrhea disproportionately impacts individuals aged 15–24 and remains a public health challenge due to its increasing resistance to antibiotics. Nationally, the trend mirrors Florida’s situation, with young adults bearing the brunt of the infection rates. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that gonorrhea is the second most commonly reported bacterial sexually transmitted disease across the United States, with numbers steadily rising over the last decade.

Primary and Secondary Syphilis Rates and Cases in Florida

Primary and secondary syphilis are stages of a bacterial sexually transmitted disease caused by Treponema pallidum, posing significant public health concerns. The primary stage is marked by the appearance of sores at the infection site, while the secondary stage can include skin rashes and mucous membrane lesions. If untreated, syphilis can progress to more severe health issues.

Primary and secondary syphilis remain a significant public health concern in Florida. In 2023, Florida recorded 4,365 cases, translating to a rate of 22.3 cases per 100,000 residents.

Among Florida’s largest counties, Miami-Dade County reported the highest number of primary and secondary syphilis cases, followed by Hillsborough County.

HIV Diagnoses in Florida

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a viral infection that compromises the immune system by attacking CD4 cells, also known as T cells, which play a vital role in defending the body against infections. If left untreated, HIV can progressively weaken the immune system, leading to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The virus is mainly transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, sharing of needles, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. Although there is currently no cure for HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively control the virus, enabling individuals to lead long and healthy lives.

HIV remains a critical public health challenge in Florida. In 2023, the state recorded 4,478 new HIV diagnoses, placing it 3rd nationally. These figures highlight the need for enhanced prevention and treatment strategies to address the epidemic.

HIV disproportionately impacts marginalized populations, including men who have sex with men (MSM) and racial/ethnic minorities. Florida’s public health efforts must focus on expanding access to testing, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), and antiretroviral therapy to curb transmission rates and improve health outcomes for those living with HIV.

What Role Do Colleges and Universities Play in STD Rates in Florida?

With more than 1 million students enrolled across over 130 public and private institutions, colleges and universities play a significant role in shaping Florida’s landscape of sexually transmitted infections. Institutions like the University of Florida, with its bustling student body of over 60,000, Florida State University with around 45,000 students, and the University of Central Florida, hosting more than 68,000 students, are among the state’s largest. These vibrant and diverse campuses present unique challenges and opportunities for sexual health education and prevention initiatives. The dynamic college environment, with its mix of cultures and lifestyles, adds a layer of complexity to addressing sexual health, but also offers a chance to foster informed and responsible behaviors among young adults.

Here are some of the ways these institutions contribute to STD incidence and statistics in Florida:

High-Risk Behaviors

• College culture: The prevalence of alcohol use and casual encounters in college settings increases the likelihood of unprotected sex, heightening the risk of STD transmission.
• Inconsistent condom use: Many students report inconsistent use of protection and engagement in high-risk behaviors, such as having multiple sexual partners, which contributes to rising STD rates.

Lack of Comprehensive Sexual Health Education

• Educational gaps: Limited or inconsistent sexual education in Florida’s high schools and colleges leaves many students uninformed about effective contraceptive use and STD prevention.
• Misunderstandings: Common misconceptions, std myths about the importance of regular testing and the methods of preventing STDs exacerbate the problem.

Barriers to Accessing Health Care Services

• Stigma and cost: Many students avoid seeking testing or treatment due to stigma or financial constraints.
• Under-resourced campus health centers: Some university health centers have limited hours or lack adequate resources to serve the needs of students effectively.

Underreporting and Lack of Testing

• Privacy concerns: Students often refrain from testing due to fears of judgment or confidentiality breaches.
• Transient lifestyles: The transient nature of college students makes consistent healthcare access and reporting of infections more challenging.

STD Testing Options in Florida

Private STD Clinics: Private clinics provide convenient and confidential STD testing services. Tests typically cover a range of infections, with results often available within 1-2 days.

Testing in major Florida cities include:

STD Testing in Orlando

STD Testing in Miami

STD Testing in Jacksonville

STD Testing in Tampa

STD Testing in St. Petersburg

STD Testing in Tallahassee

Local Health Clinics: Florida’s county health departments and community clinics offer low-cost or free STD testing. Contact local clinics for information on costs, hours, and appointment times, which will vary by location.

At-Home STD Testing: At-home testing kits offer privacy and convenience. Users can collect samples at home and send them to a lab for analysis, with results typically available within 7-10 days.

STD Prevention and Treatment Programs in Florida

Florida has a range of programs aimed at addressing these challenges and reducing STD rates, particularly among young adults. Programs emphasize prevention and accessible healthcare services, including:

Free condom distribution: Many universities and community health organizations distribute free condoms to encourage safe practices.

Routine screenings: Health departments and private clinics across the state offer affordable or free STD testing services.

Expedited Partner Therapy (EPT): EPT allows healthcare providers to treat the sexual partners of infected individuals without requiring a separate visit.

Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (DoxyPEP): An emerging option in Florida, DoxyPEP is used to prevent bacterial infections like syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea after potential exposure.

STD Resources for Florida Residents

Florida Department of Health: The state health department provides resources, information, and support for STD prevention and treatment.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC offers comprehensive information and guidelines on managing and preventing sexually transmitted infections.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) in Florida

Where is the highest rate of STDs in Florida?

In 2023, the county with the highest STD rate in Florida is Gadsden County, with a rate of 1,797.8 cases per 100,000 people.

Is it illegal to not tell someone you have an STD in Florida?

Yes, under Florida law, it is illegal to knowingly transmit certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) to another person without informing them. Specifically, knowingly transmitting HIV without disclosure is a criminal offense under Florida Statutes (F.S. 384.24). Similar statutes may apply to other serious STDs.

What is the most common STD in Florida?

The most common STD in Florida in 2023 is chlamydia, with a total of 112,744 cases reported.

How much does an STD test cost in Florida?

The cost of an STD test in Florida can vary depending on the provider and the type of tests conducted:

• Free or low-cost options are available at county health departments and community health clinics.
• Private clinics and labs offer individual tests and comprehensive panels for as little as $139.
• At-home STD test kits typically cost $100–$400 pending on the specific test.

How are Sexually Transmitted Diseases treated?

Treatment depends on the type of STD:

• Bacterial STDs (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis) can be treated with antibiotics.
• Viral STDs (e.g., herpes, HIV, HPV) cannot be cured but can be managed with antiviral medications.
• Parasitic STDs (e.g., trichomoniasis) are treated with antiparasitic drugs.

How do I contact the Florida Department of Health?

850-245-4444

Sources

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): STD Statistics
2. Florida Department of Health (FDOH): STD Information and Resources
3. American Sexual Health Association (ASHA): Sexual Health Resources
4. World Health Organization (WHO): Global STD Information
5. National Institutes of Health (NIH): Sexual Health Studies