The HIV/AIDS/STD Task force conducted 87 surveys and
gave out 16 Twinrix vaccinations.
Why is this important?
Connecticut State Health Department statistics show a
shocking 133% increase in the diagnosis of primary and secondary
Syphilis between 2001 and 2002. Additionally, of those diagnosed with
Syphilis in 2002, 36% had HIV, as compared to 25% in 2001. The ages of
those diagnosed in 2002 ranged from 21 to 51. This combined with an
overall increase of HIV infection in the men who have sex with men (MSM)
community in major metropolitan areas nationwide.
The Task Force, which came into being last June is
spearheaded by Dr. Gary Blick of Circle Medical, LLC, Norwalk, CT, and
the non-profit organization, Global HEALTH Organization, Inc. It was
started in direct response to the significant rise of infection rates
of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’s) and HIV in the MSM population
of Connecticut. The Task Force is comprised of members representing
various agencies from the CT. Department of Health, pharmaceutical
companies, medical professionals, and members of the MSM community.
The Task Force is conducting this initial
epidemiological survey to gather data that will reveal the current MSM
understanding of: sexual practices, safer sex beliefs, transmission
risks, and current health status. The outcome of the study will serve
as a guide for new educational programs based on those findings. The
goal is to create a statewide model to heighten awareness of the
dramatic increase in these illnesses and significantly reduce the
rates of transmission.
For more information about the Connecticut
HIV/AIDS/STD Task Force, contact Dr. Gary Blick at
gary.blick@globalhealthorg.lorg
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