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Mississippi STD Rates Stubbornly High Despite National Drop
15 Feb
Summary
- Mississippi has the third-highest STD infection rate nationally.
- High uninsured rates and lack of Medicaid expansion hinder progress.
- Nearly 1% of Mississippi's population is infected with STDs.
Mississippi is grappling with a significant public health challenge as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) remain a major concern, despite national declines. Between 2019 and 2023, STD transmission fell by 22% statewide. However, Mississippi still ranks third nationally for STD infection rates, with nearly 1% of its population affected.
Two primary factors contribute to this persistent issue: a high rate of uninsured adults and the absence of Medicaid expansion in the state. These conditions restrict access to crucial healthcare services. The CDC reports that 11,900 individuals in Mississippi live with HIV, and over 17% of them are unaware of their status. Mississippi also holds the fifth-highest national diagnosis rate for HIV.
Fortunately, free and low-cost sexual health resources are available. The AIDS Healthcare Foundation Healthcare Center in Jackson offers walk-in testing and treatment for STIs. Additionally, all Mississippi county health departments provide affordable STD and HIV testing.
