Anonymous prescriptions for STDs could get committee support next month
After discussing concerns raised by Sen. Allen Christensen, R-North Ogden, the committee shied away from officially approving the bill. Instead, the bill will be discussed again in its November meeting.
The prescription, which would be voluntary to doctors and left up their best medical judgment, is necessary to address Utah's "very serious" increases in chlamydia and gonorrhea.
"If people living in this healthy, high morals-based society think that we don't have a problem with STDs, that is counter to reality," said state Department of Health Director Dr. David Sundwall, who noted that outbreaks are statewide, not just in the urban areas.
The state's cases of chlamydia and gonorrhea has rose significantly, particularly among Utahns aged 15 to 24, according to the health department. STDs can result from oral sex despite surveys indicating that many Utahns in that age group believe that it is not sex in their minds.
Chlamydia infection is usually asymptomatic and often goes unrecognized and untreated, which is why it is often referred to as the "silent epidemic." Gonorrhea has similar effects as chlamydia, plus the added significant risk of infections that increase the transmission of HIV infection.
E-MAIL: jthalman@desnews.com
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