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Data indicates a sharp increase in gonorrhea cases reported in Utah

Posted at 8:10 PM, Nov 13, 2013
and last updated 2013-11-13 22:10:04-05

SALT LAKE CITY – The number of gonorrhea cases in Utah have nearly doubled compared to last year, and the ailment is the fifth most-common sexually transmitted disease in Utah.

Data from the Utah Department of Health indicates 633 cases were reported statewide between Jan. 1 and Sept. 30 2013, which marks an increase of about 94 percent in reported cases from the same period in 2012.

According to a press release from the Utah Department of Health, during that same time period in 2012, a total of 327 cases were reported.

Though gonorrhea is more commonly diagnosed in males, this year’s data shows an increase among females. Salt Lake County accounts for 72 percent of the cases from 2013.

Gonorrhea is treatable, but it often doesn’t show symptoms. Health experts recommended that anyone who is sexually active get tested for STDs.