High Rate Of STD's In Wicomico County - WMDT 47 News - Delmarva's Choice

High Rate Of STD's In Wicomico County

WICOMICO, Co., Md. - Parents in Wicomico County have new reasons to be concerned about their teens. According to a new report, sexually transmitted diseases are on the rise in the county, the latest numbers showing the rates are just behind Baltimore. Residents along the shore react.

"I knew that they were high, but I did not know that Wicomico County was the second highest. I knew Baltimore was up there", says one. "I think we live in a time where people don't really think there's consequences for their actions, so it doesn't surprise me at all", says another.

This may shock you though, health officials say gonorrhea is the most prevalent STD in Wicomico County, especially for teenagers between 15 and 19 years old. That's why, the county health department is working with local high schools providing STD testing for students.

"Its not really publicized, and I feel like students especially should be aware. Especially on a college campus", says a UMES students. "I hope that somebody starts to really educate these kids about decisions that they're making", another student says.

During a recent Board of Education meeting, board members approved "Straight Talk", which is a 30-minute video to educate students on STD's.