HHS Releases STI National Strategic Plan Progress Report and Highlights New Focus on HSV

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has unveiled the 2021–2023 Progress Report for the Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) National Strategic Plan, outlining the achievements and ongoing challenges in combating STIs across the United States. This report provides a comprehensive overview of federal efforts over the past two years, emphasizing both success and areas requiring additional focus.

The report presents an analysis of 14 key indicators, divided into core and disparities categories, to evaluate the nation’s progress in STI prevention and care. Seven of these indicators have shown positive trends, achieving or nearing annual targets. However, the remaining seven indicators have not met expectations, with six specifically highlighting concerns related to syphilis. This has prompted a concentrated effort by the National Syphilis and Congenital Syphilis Syndemic Federal Task Force, under the leadership of HHS Assistant Secretary for Health, Admiral Rachel Levine.

Admiral Levine emphasized the urgency of continued efforts, stating, “These data serve as a call to action for continued collaboration in our national response to STIs. Through education, awareness, and increased access to care, we can improve outcomes of syphilis, and other STIs, and safeguard the health of communities across our nation.”

In addition to addressing syphilis, the report introduces the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Addendum to the STI National Strategic Plan, marking a significant shift in focus. HSV, one of the most prevalent STIs, is a lifelong condition that affects millions, yet remains largely undiagnosed due to the asymptomatic nature of the virus in many individuals. Those who do experience symptoms often face recurring outbreaks and societal stigma, impacting their quality of life.

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HSV’s inclusion in the strategic plan represents a new direction, as it was initially omitted due to a lack of federal programs and national surveillance systems dedicated to HSV. HSV presents unique challenges in diagnosis and management, further complicated by its exclusion from mandatory national notification.

Kaye Hayes, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Infectious Disease and Director of the Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy, remarked on the importance of addressing HSV, saying, “HSV is a critical priority for us. Future iterations of the STI Plan will incorporate HSV within its purview. HHS will work with communities who are underserved and disproportionately affected to prevent HSV and improve access to care, while also advancing health equity and reducing stigma.”

The progress report highlights the efforts of HHS to adapt and expand its approach in tackling STIs, ensuring that strategies are inclusive and effective. With new initiatives and a reinforced focus on equitable healthcare access, HHS aims to mitigate the impact of STIs and enhance the well-being of all affected communities. As the nation continues to address these pressing health challenges, the strategic plan serves as a guiding framework for future actions in STI prevention and care.

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