Final answer:
Chlamydia is the most common STI and the most reported infectious disease, especially among young individuals aged 15 to 24. Females are more likely to be infected than males.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common STI and the most reported infectious disease is Chlamydia. Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is not only the most common bacterial STI in the United States but also the most frequently reported. Females, particularly in their teens and young adulthood, are considerably more likely than males to contract chlamydia. The prevalence of chlamydia is particularly high among individuals between the ages of 15 and 24, emphasizing the importance for this demographic to engage in safe sex practices and routine health check-ups to identify and treat this infection promptly. Despite effective treatment options, if left untreated, chlamydia can lead to significant reproductive and other health issues.