Syphilis Testing near me in Largo, Florida

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, but it is more common in people with multiple sex partners, those who engage in unprotected sex, and men who have sex with men. Pregnant women should also be tested for syphilis as it can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth, leading to serious health complications for the infant. If you live in Largo, FL, and fall into any of these categories, it is recommended that you get tested for syphilis.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial as it is a highly infectious disease that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It can lead to damage to the heart, brain, and other organs, and in pregnant women, it can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, or severe infections in newborns. Early detection through testing allows for immediate treatment, preventing these severe consequences.

Syphilis testing options in Largo, FL:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

In Largo, FL, there are several urgent care and walk-in clinics where you can get tested for syphilis. One highly rated option is the Urgent Care & Wellness Center in Lutz, FL, which has a 4.93 rating based on 329 reviews. You can book same-day or next-day appointments through Solv's website or mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers in Largo also offer syphilis testing. If you have a regular doctor, they can provide you with a test, discuss your results, and if necessary, start you on a treatment plan.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers in and around Largo that provide free or low-cost STD testing. These centers are a great resource for those without insurance or those who cannot afford the cost of testing at a private clinic.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are also available. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in Largo

Largo, located in Pinellas County, FL, has seen an increase in syphilis cases in recent years, mirroring a national trend. According to the CDC, syphilis rates have been rising across the country, and Largo is no exception. The increase in Largo is similar to the trends seen in nearby cities such as Belleair Beach, Indian Rocks Beach, Bardmoor, Clearwater, and Seminole.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Largo

Several factors contribute to the rise of syphilis in Largo. These include an increase in unprotected sex, a lack of regular testing, and a lack of awareness about the disease and its symptoms. Additionally, certain populations, such as men who have sex with men, are at a higher risk.

Other STDs in Largo

Syphilis is not the only STD of concern in Largo. Other STDs, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis, are also prevalent in the area. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for those who are sexually active, especially if they have multiple partners or engage in unprotected sex.