Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), syphilis, hepatitis B (HBV), and hepatitis C (HCV) can go undetected because they do not always show obvious signs or symptoms. Do you know your status?
Each month, the New River Health District provides free sexual health screenings for HIV, syphilis, HBV, and HCV at community locations throughout the district, as follows:
- Floyd County: Jessie Peterman Memorial Library, 321 W Main St., Floyd – last Monday of each month
- Giles County: Narrows Fire Department, 137 Center St., Narrows – fourth Wednesday of each month
- Montgomery County: Christiansburg Library, 125 Sheltman St., Christiansburg – first and third Mondays of each month
- Pulaski County: Pulaski County Department of Social Services, 53 Commerce St., Pulaski – third Wednesday of each month
- Radford City: Radford Public Library, 30 W. Main St., Radford – second and fourth Thursdays of each month
No appointment is necessary. Walk-ins are welcome. Test results are confidential.
“Many STIs do not show symptoms. If you are infected, you can be spreading disease to others. We want to test and treat for STIs to help prevent the spread of these diseases,” Noelle Bissell, M.D., health director for the New River Health District said.
“This is a new project, and I am excited to get it started and to reach out to more of our residents and communities. If you are sexually active, then you should be aware of your status!” Joel Lowery, project manager for the testing and counseling program said.
The New River Health District is assessing additional local sites for these services. “Our goal is to offer sexual health services to everyone, especially those who have limitations of time, location or money,” he said. “We want you to know your status! Get tested!”
The New River Health District (Virginia Department of Health) provides community health services to residents of Floyd, Giles, Montgomery and Pulaski counties and Radford City. For more information, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/new-river/ or call 540-585-3300.