STIs or STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) are usually passed through sexual contact with an infected partner. They include many diseases such as HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, genital warts, hepatitis, syphilis, and others.

STDs are widespread – more than 2.5 million people in the U.S. are infected each year. Having a STI can make you more likely to get HIV. 

Talk about your testing needs with your health care provider.

The Florida Department of Health in Columbia County has specially trained nurses and physicians to examine, diagnose, and treat both men and women. Early diagnosis and treatment is the best way to decrease complications and in many cases obtain a complete cure.

STI examinations are available Monday – Friday from 8-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.


Resources

Talk: Talk to your partner and your health care provider about risk factors, safer sex methods, and testing.

Test: Make an appointment for STI testing.

Treat: Treat the disease and avoid additional health problems.

The most common symptoms of an STI are:

  • Genital burning
  • Genital itching
  • Genital discharge

If you have these symptoms contact your health care provider right away for an evaluation.