The transmission of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) from a person who knows or should know they have the disease to another person who is not informed of that fact before engaging in sexual contact with the infected person may result in both civil liability (for money damages) and criminal liability (for penalties).

Laws vary from state to state and some states have both civil and criminal statutes (laws enacted by the state legislature) that specifically address the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. In other states civil lawsuits may be filed and criminal prosecutions may be made under traditional legal theories such as negligence in a civil lawsuit and battery (harmful or offensive physical contact without consent) in a criminal prosecution.

In Kentucky, the transmission of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) by an individual who knows or should have known about their infection to an uninformed partner can lead to both civil and criminal consequences. Under Kentucky law, an individual may face civil liability if they negligently or intentionally transmit an STD to a partner who was not aware of the condition. This could result in a lawsuit for damages based on negligence or intentional infliction of emotional distress. On the criminal side, Kentucky does not have a statute that specifically criminalizes the transmission of STDs. However, general criminal laws, such as those related to assault or reckless endangerment, could potentially be applied to situations where someone knowingly transmits an STD to another person without their consent. It is important for individuals to be aware of their health status and to communicate with partners about STDs to prevent potential legal repercussions.