Syphilis Testing near me in Festus, Missouri

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active is at risk of contracting syphilis, but certain groups are more susceptible. These include individuals with multiple sexual partners, those who engage in unprotected sex, men who have sex with men, and individuals living with HIV. If you fall into any of these categories, it is recommended that you get tested for syphilis. Furthermore, pregnant women should also get tested as syphilis can cause serious complications during pregnancy and can be passed onto the baby.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial because the disease often presents no symptoms in its early stages, but can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. These complications can include damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Moreover, syphilis can increase the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV. Early detection through testing allows for prompt treatment, which can effectively cure the disease and prevent its transmission to others.

Syphilis testing options in Festus, MO:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

There are several urgent care and walk-in clinics in and around Festus, MO, that offer syphilis testing. One such location is Mercy Health- GoHealth Urgent Care in nearby Crystal City. With Solv, you can conveniently book same-day and next-day testing appointments at these clinics.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are also a good option for syphilis testing. Your primary care doctor can order the test and provide follow-up care if necessary. If you don't have a primary care provider, Solv can help you find one in the Festus area.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost STD testing, including for syphilis. These centers are a valuable resource, especially for individuals without insurance or with limited financial means.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are another option. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in Festus

Syphilis rates in Festus, MO, and the surrounding Monroe County are a concern. While the exact numbers fluctuate, the trend indicates an increase in syphilis cases over the past few years. This is in line with national data, which shows a resurgence of syphilis across the United States.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Festus

Risk factors for syphilis in Festus mirror those at the national level. These include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and drug use. The presence of other STDs, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis, can also increase the risk of contracting syphilis.

Other STDs in Festus

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are prevalent in Festus and the surrounding areas. The presence of these STDs can increase the risk of contracting syphilis and vice versa. Therefore, regular testing for all STDs is recommended for sexually active individuals.