Maryland and Pennsylvania health officials are concerned over chlamydia rates

A rise in the number of chlamydia cases in Maryland and Pennsylvania has health officials urging teens to practice safe sex and undergo testing to limit the spread of the sexually transmitted disease (STD).

The Morning Call of Pennsylvania reported that young adults between the ages of 15 and 24 have the highest rate of chlamydia in the state.

Health officials are concerned that despite the growing numbers, instances of the STD are under-reported, since many infected individuals do not get tested due to lack of outward symptoms, the Call noted.

In February, the Southern Maryland News released an article stating that the area's chlamydia rate had exceeded the national average.

The state had more than 20,000 new cases in 2009, according to the news source.

Chlamydia is the most common STD, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Painful urination is one of the few symptoms of the infection, although women can experience permanent damage to their reproductive organs if the STD is left untreated.

Any individual who would like to be screened for STDs may consider using online testing services.