A recent analysis of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Washington D.C. has revealed that the rates did not return to pre-pandemic levels in 2022. The annual report released by District officials on Friday attributes the sustained increase in new cases to lingering challenges from the COVID-19 era. The closure of clinics and people avoiding healthcare settings during the pandemic have contributed to the ongoing rise in STIs.

Despite new HIV cases trending downward over time, with 210 new diagnoses in 2022 down from 224 in 2021, challenges persist in accessing care. Washington D.C. is facing a staffing shortage, particularly of culturally competent professionals for STI screening, testing, and treatment. The report also highlighted that Black residents are disproportionately affected by STIs, making efforts to boost access to care crucial.

Public health officials are creatively trying to improve access to care by reaching out to communities and utilizing events and artists to share messages about prevention and treatment. The District's federally qualified health centers and community-based organizations are facing staffing challenges that are hindering efforts to recruit culturally sensitive public health workers.

While there has been improvement in understanding and addressing the needs of women with syphilis infections, cases of congenital syphilis in babies have been on the rise in 2022. The increase in STI cases, especially among Black individuals, underscores the importance of continued efforts to raise awareness and accessibility to care.

Efforts such as providing free HIV and STI tests, offering walk-in options at clinics, and utilizing technology like QR codes for test results are helping in making testing more accessible to the community. Public health officials are also finding success with federally funded pilot programs, like providing housing for residents on PrEP for one year with intensive case management and employment training.

Despite the ongoing challenges, public health officials in Washington D.C. remain committed to reducing STI rates and improving access to care for all residents in the district.