The Summit County Board of Health meeting on August 7, 2023, highlighted a pressing public health concern: the rising rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the area. Health officials revealed that Summit County has one of the highest syphilis rates in Utah, with a significant number of new cases reported daily, primarily among individuals aged 25 to 40.

During the meeting, a health department representative detailed the ongoing investigations into these cases, emphasizing the challenges posed by community gatherings where individuals may be unaware of each other's health statuses. The representative noted that despite efforts to manage the situation, the influx of new cases often leaves them feeling overwhelmed.

In the previous year, the health department conducted 443 investigations related to STDs, excluding COVID-19 cases. The representative, who was the sole Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) until recently, shared that they have now trained additional staff to help manage the workload. The peak times for these cases tend to coincide with the ski season, as seasonal workers contribute to the population density in the area.

The discussion underscored the importance of public awareness and education regarding STDs, as well as the need for continued vigilance and resources to address this growing health issue. The board's commitment to tackling these challenges reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding community health in Summit County.