STD Awareness Month

Health department notes STD awareness month

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments note that April is STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease) Awareness Month. Sandy Sommer, RN Director of Clinical Services, notes, "With an estimated 19 million new sexually transmitted infections occurring every year in the US, it is clear that STDs remain a widespread health threat in this country."

Sommer adds,"STD Awareness Month is an opportune time to remind area residents that the Health Department offers confidential:

- STD Testing for Males and Females

- Treatment of STDs

- Contraceptive Supplies

- Preventative immunizations against such STDs as hepatitis B and HPV

- Counseling, Education, and Referral

- Expedited Partner Treatment

Testing and knowledge of infection are vital to reducing the incidence and spread of STDs. Because many infections have no symptoms, those at risk need to get tested and find out if they are infected.

There are many actions you can take to protect yourself and others from STDs:

~ Abstinence - The most reliable way to avoid infection with an STD are to abstain from sex or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner.

~ Correct and consistent use of condoms - Consistent use of latex condoms reduces the risk of HIV and other STDs. (Supplies are available through the Health Departments Kewanee and Colona offices.)

~ Screening - Getting tested and treated for STDs can protect you from serious health consequences caused by STDs. (STD Testing available at the Health Department.)

~ Immunizations - Receiving recommended hepatitis B and HPV immunizations can almost completely prevent infections covered by the vaccines.

Adds Sommer, "Though the subject of STDs may not be a comfortable healthcare issue to discuss, we want people to remember the Health Department is a source of confidential testing, treatment, and education. And we are literally just a phone call away. People should know we offer the tools and services people need to stay healthy."

T he clinic accepts medicaid payments and private pay. A sliding fee scale, based on the client's income, has been established to assist low-income families to obtain services. In addition, grant funds are available for those who meet certain eligibility requirements.