The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating two cases of a new strain of gonorrhea found in Massachusetts, which appear to be resistant to antibiotics used for treating (STIs). Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) and is most common in younger adults. Unfortunately, this STI does not always have “noticeable” symptoms. It is important to get checked annually and get checked immediately if you notice pain when urinating, have a discharge from the penis or vagina, or if you notice unusual bleeding between your menstrual cycles.
If gonorrhea is not treated, it can have dire consequences for both men and women. In men, untreated gonorrhea can cause long-term problems with the prostate and testicles. If untreated in women, pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility problems, and loss of pregnancy can occur.
Be well!
Resources:
Learn more about this new drug-resistant strain - https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2023-01-20/two-cases-of-new-drug-resistant-gonorrhea-strain-reported-in-massachusetts
Take steps to prevent getting gonorrhea by visiting the CDC website - https://www.cdc.gov/std/gonorrhea/drug-resistant/public-health-threat/default.htm
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Drug-Resistant Gonorrhea, A Public Health Threat. Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/std/gonorrhea/drug-resistant/public-health-threat/default.htm
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Two Cases of New Drug-Resistant Gonorrhea Strain Reported in Massachusetts. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2023-01-20/two-cases-of-new-drug-resistant-gonorrhea-strain-reported-in-massachusetts