About us

The Communicable Disease Unit promotes and safeguards public health through prevention and management of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Through comprehensive strategies, we aim to reduce the spread of STIs, minimize their impact on individuals and the community, and promote sexual health.

Santa Cruz County STI Data

General STI Information & Resources

What are STIs?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are spread predominantly by unprotected sexual contact. Some STIs can also be transmitted during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding and through infected blood or blood products. (WHO)

Many STIs have no signs or symptoms or only mild symptoms. The only sure way to know if you have an STI is to get tested.

STI Fact Sheets from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

For information on HIV: Check CDC HIV Information

For local HIV and Hepatitis C resources: Click Here

Where to get tested

The best place to get tested is at your regular provider’s office or clinic. If you aren’t already connected with a provider, STI services may be available at the following locations in Santa Cruz County:

Add infographic of SNCC’s most current safety net list (can’t find web version)

If you don’t have insurance coverage for reproductive health services, you may be eligible for these services through Family Planning, Access, Care, and Treatment (FamPACT). The health centers listed above may be able to assist you with getting coverage.

For Teens

In California, teens have the right to confidentially access sexual and reproductive health care. Information about these rights are available here: Your Health, Your Rights (ACLU)

Teens may qualify for FREE and CONFIDENTIAL coverage through the Family Planning, Access, Care, and Treatment (FamPACT) program. Many local health centers can assist in seeing if you are eligible.

Other health-related resources for teens can be found here:

Santa Cruz County Teen Health Outreach Program (THO)

STI Prevention

How to Prevent STDs

For information on how to prevent sexually transmitted infections, see How You Can Prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases (CDC).

An STI prevention strategy called DoxyPEP is an option that may be available to some people to reduce the risk of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia after having sex without a condom. DoxyPEP works like a morning-after pill for STIs. Ask your provider if DoxyPEP could be an option for you.

There are vaccines available for some infections that can spread through sexual contact (but may not be considered STIs) including HPV, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and mpox (link to mpox page). Please speak to your provider about what vaccines might be recommended for you.

Provider Resources

STI Case Consultation

Reporting STIs

Promoting Sexual Health in Your Practice

STI Screening Recommendations:

STI Prevention

Treatment references