The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has just published the Progress Report 2021-2023 of the National Strategic Plan for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), covering the period 2021-2025. This report highlights progress and challenges in the fight against sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis and herpes, focusing on policies, programs and research efforts that promote public health in the country.
Evaluating progress in the prevention of sexually transmitted infections
The data show that of the 14 indicators evaluated, only seven have managed to progress towards the annual sexual health goals, while the other seven have not met expectations or have experienced setbacks.
In particular, six of the unmet indicators relate to syphilis, which is one of the main focus areas for the Federal National Task Force on Syphilis and Syndemic Congenital Syphilis, led by Admiral Rachel Levine, HHS Assistant Secretary for Health.
Levine noted that “these data call us to intensify our collaboration in the national response to STIs.” The Admiral stressed the importance of education, awareness and broader access to health services in this regard.
Herpes and its inclusion in the national strategy
One of the novelties of the report is the inclusion of the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Appendix in it National Strategic Plan for ETS. HSV, a common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S., is primarily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact and can persist for life. Although it was not initially included in the STI strategic plan, it has become a priority, especially because it disproportionately affects underserved populations.
Kaye Hayes, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Infectious Diseases and Director of the Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy, explained that future versions of the STI plan will prioritize herpes, focusing on improve access to health care and reduce the stigma associated with this infection. HSV, not being a notifiable disease, lacks a national surveillance system to monitor its progress, making it difficult to control at the federal level.
HHS Goals and Future Actions on STI Prevention
HHS is working closely with communities and health organizations to develop federal strategies, leveraging existing resources and structures. One of the key principles for improving STI prevention and control is ensuring that the national plan is aligned with the latest scientific and public health advances, prioritizing vulnerable populations and promoting health equity.
