Proposes a prescription of a common antibiotic for those at risk.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a draft guidance for the prescription of antibiotics to combat sexually transmitted infections (STI). According to CDC data, the rate of STIs in Americans has increased by 42 percent between 2011 and 2021. A common and inexpensive antibiotic called doxycycline is usually effective against most STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
This proposed guidance, which the CDC has titled Doxy PEP, recommends the immediate prescription of doxycycline within 72 hours of unprotected sex with a new partner. “STIs are pervasive and increasing rapidly in the U.S., and Doxy PEP has demonstrated substantial benefit in reducing new chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis infections,” the CDC stated. “These draft guidelines represent a new approach to addressing STI prevention.”
Since the use of this guidance could lead to antibiotic-resistant STIs, the CDC has opened up this guideline draft for public comment, requesting input from all sectors to better consider the outcomes the proposed directive could bring.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Director Mandy Cohen to be discerning as she oversees the CDC.
- For Secretary Xavier Becerra to seek God’s direction as he heads the Department of Health and Human Services.
Sources: The Hill, CBS News
