Sexually Transmitted Diseases drop overall in Minnesota, but health officials warn of concerning trends

(St. Paul, MN) -- Minnesota Health Officials are sharing some increases and decreases in transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in 2023 compared to the previous year. 

The Minnesota Department of Health released updated statistics on sexually transmitted infections between 2022 and 2023, which showed a 3% drop in the time period. While the total number of STI's decreased, the department highlighted a 24% increase in HIV infections, the highest level of Congenital Syphilis in 40 years (a 44% increase), and more.

“STIs and HIV are highly preventable, but we continue to see high numbers of reported cases and the large increase in HIV and congenital syphilis infections is troubling,” said Dr. Ruth Lynfield, state epidemiologist and medical director at MDH. “To reverse these trends, we urge anyone who is sexually active to reduce the risk to themselves and others with prevention steps, testing and treatment.”

Chlamydia remains the highest reported STI in the state but did trend downwards in 2023 case-totals by 1.6%. Gonorrhea decreased slightly more dramatically, by a total of 5.5% compared to 2022. State officials also focused on Syphilis cases seeing an overall decrease, but highlighted an increase of early cases among women (10% in 2022 to 30% in 2023)

“It is encouraging to see a decrease in overall cases reported, but we are concerned about the continued high levels of syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea as well as the increase in reported HIV infections,” said Christine Jones, STI, HIV and TB section manager for Minnesota's Department of Health. 

You can read more about the drop in sexually transmitted infections by clicking here.