CONNECTIONS
A Bimonthly e-Newsletter
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Director's Update

January - February 2011

2010 was indeed a busy year! We saw the release of the IOM Report on Viral Hepatitis, the National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS), exciting results from the iPrEx and CAPRISA biomedical HIV prevention trials, guidance released on implementing syringe services and programs, and the launch of innovative national social marketing campaigns. Continued reductions in reported TB, hepatitis B, and gonorrhea infections and increases in HIV and chlamydia screening demonstrate the continued impact of our prevention programs.

Leaders and communities across the country are mobilized as never before. Yet tough economic times saw reductions in local investments, with challenges in accessing and delivering effective prevention, treatment, and care services. These pressures are likely to continue, even as we implement the bold strategies called for in the NHAS.

Despite the complexity of these challenges, CDC will commit to making headway in accelerating health impact and tackling health inequalities. We will strengthen our federal, state, and local partnerships to optimally align our efforts and leverage resources. These commitments will be critical for making a real difference in 2011.

STD Treatment Guidelines

The 2010 STD Treatment Guidelines, which update the 2006 Guidelines, advise physicians and other health care providers on the most effective treatment regimens, screening procedures, and prevention and vaccination strategies for STDs. The recommendations are developed in consultation with public and private sector professionals knowledgeable in the treatment of patients with sexually transmitted infections. The Guidelines are applicable to various patient-care settings. Although the guidelines emphasize treatment, prevention strategies and diagnostic recommendations are also discussed.

Highlights of the 2010 STD Treatment Guidelines include

Expanded STD prevention recommendations, including HPV vaccination.
Revised gonorrhea treatment regimens.
New treatment regimens for genital warts and bacterial vaginosis.
Revised guidance on the diagnostic evaluation and management of syphilis.

To obtain a copy of the 2010 STD Treatment Guidelines, visit the STD Website or contact CDC-INFO at 800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636), 24 hours/day, or cdcinfo@cdc.gov.

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

2011 marks the 11th year for National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD), which takes place on February 7. This effort focuses on capacity building to increase awareness, participation, and support for HIV prevention among African Americans. While blacks represent approximately 14 percent of the U.S. population, they account for almost half of people living with HIV in the country, as well as nearly half of new infections each year.

NBHAAD's goal is to motivate African Americans at risk for HIV to get educated, get involved, and get tested. Over the past 11 years, federal, state, and local government agencies; community-based organizations; public health partners; and partners in the entertainment business and faith communities have joined together in support of NBHAAD. This year's theme is "It takes a village to fight HIV/AIDS!" Visit http://www.blackaidsday.org for materials and information.