Syphilis Testing near me in Apex, North Carolina

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active is at risk for syphilis, especially those with multiple partners or those who engage in unprotected sex. Men who have sex with men, and individuals who are HIV positive, are particularly at high risk. Pregnant women should also get tested for syphilis, as the infection can be passed to the unborn child, potentially causing serious health complications.

Importance of getting tested

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Early detection and treatment can prevent these complications. Moreover, individuals who have syphilis are more likely to transmit or acquire HIV. Therefore, getting tested is crucial not only for individual health but also for the health of the community.

Syphilis testing options in Apex, NC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer convenient and immediate testing options. For instance, Carolina Primary Care / Apollo Urgent Care in Morrisville, NC, and AFC Urgent Care centers in Durham and Raleigh, NC, are highly rated nearby locations that offer syphilis testing. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at each through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also conduct syphilis tests. If you have a regular doctor, they can be a good starting point for getting tested.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers that provide free or low-cost STD testing. It's important to check with local health departments for information on these services.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are also available. These can be purchased online or at a pharmacy, and they offer a convenient and private option for individuals who prefer to test at home.

Prevalence of syphilis in Apex

While specific data on syphilis prevalence in Apex, NC is not readily available, Wake County, where Apex is located, has seen an increase in syphilis cases in recent years, mirroring a national trend. This underscores the importance of regular testing, particularly for those in high-risk groups.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Apex

Risk factors for syphilis in Apex are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include having multiple sexual partners, engaging in unprotected sex, and being a man who has sex with men. The presence of other sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis, can also increase the risk of acquiring syphilis.

Other STDs in Apex

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Apex and the surrounding areas. Regular testing for these STDs is recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly those in high-risk groups.