Breaking the Silence: STD Awareness and the Role of Contact Tracing in Nepal
Breaking the Silence: STD Awareness and the Role of Contact Tracing in Nepal Introduction Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), often stigmatized and misunderstood, are a growing concern in Nepal. Despite advances in healthcare and awareness, many people still lack access to proper diagnosis, treatment, and education. One of the key tools in managing the spread of STDs is contact tracing , a method that’s often overlooked or underutilized in our public health system. This blog aims to shed light on the current situation of STDs in Nepal, why contact tracing matters, and how we as a society can play a part in prevention and care. Understanding STDs in the Nepali Context STDs (also known as STIs—sexually transmitted infections) are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact. Common STDs include HIV/AIDS , syphilis , gonorrhea , chlamydia , hepatitis B , and HPV . In Nepal, STDs affect people from all walks of life—urban and rural, young and old, married an...