Syphilis Testing near me in Brandon, Mississippi

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, but it is particularly prevalent among men who have sex with men. Additionally, individuals with HIV or those who have a partner with syphilis are at a higher risk. It's also recommended for all pregnant women to get tested for syphilis as it can lead to serious complications for the baby if left untreated.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial because it can cause serious health problems if left untreated, such as damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Furthermore, syphilis can increase the risk of HIV infection and can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, according to the CDC. Early detection and treatment can prevent these complications.

Syphilis testing options in Brandon, MS:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers such as MEA Spillway Clinic in Brandon, MS, and Baptist Health Services in nearby Flowood, MS, offer syphilis testing. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at these locations through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers also offer syphilis testing. It's often included in routine STD screening, especially for pregnant women and high-risk individuals.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost STD testing, including for syphilis. It's worth checking with local health departments to find out what services are available.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are also an option. These can be purchased online or from a pharmacy, and allow you to take a sample at home that you send to a lab for testing.

Prevalence of syphilis in Brandon

As part of Rankin County, the prevalence of syphilis in Brandon, MS, can be compared to both state and national data. According to the CDC, Mississippi has a higher rate of syphilis than the national average. It's important to note that rates can vary within the state, and local health departments can provide more detailed information.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Brandon

Risk factors for syphilis include unprotected sex, having multiple sexual partners, and having a sexual partner who has syphilis. Men who have sex with men and individuals with HIV are also at a higher risk.

Other STDs in Brandon

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Brandon and the wider Rankin County area. Regular testing is recommended for anyone who is sexually active, particularly if they have multiple partners or are in a high-risk group.