05/06/2022
Many STDs are treatable, but effective cures are lacking for others, such as HIV, HPV (human papillomavirus), and possibly hepatitis B. Even gonorrhea, once easily cured, has become resistant to many of the older traditional antibiotics. Many STDs can be present in, and spread by, people who do not have any symptoms of the condition and have not yet been diagnosed with an STD. Therefore, public awareness and education about these infections and the methods of preventing them are important.
There is no such thing as "safe" s*x. The only truly effective way to prevent STDs is abstinence. S*x in the context of a monogamous relationship wherein neither party is infected with an STD also is considered "safe." Most people think that kissing is a safe activity. Unfortunately, syphilis, herpes, and other infections can be contracted through this relatively simple and harmless act. All other forms of s*xual contact carry some risk.
Condoms are commonly thought to protect against STDs. While condoms are useful in decreasing the spread of certain infections, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, they do not fully protect against other infections such as ge***al herpes, ge***al warts, syphilis, and AIDS. Prevention of the spread of STDs is dependent upon the counseling of at-risk individuals and the early diagnosis and treatment of infections.

