April marks STI Awareness Month, with the theme “Talk. Test. Treat.” The focus is on educating individuals about sexually transmitted infections and empowering conversations with healthcare providers to ensure safety. Annually, 20 million new STI cases are reported in the US, costing about $16 billion in healthcare expenses. Alarmingly, those between 15 and 24 are most affected. First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon offer confidential services like STI testing, treatment, contraceptives, PrEP programs, and vaccinations. Protecting oneself includes abstinence, correct condom use, regular screenings, and crucial immunizations.
With all these disturbing statistics, STI Awareness Month is an opportune time to remind area residents that the First Choice Healthcare Clinics offer confidential:
- STI Testing for Males and Females
- Treatment of STIs
- Contraceptive Supplies
- PrEP/HIV Prevention Program
- Preventative immunizations against such STDs as Hepatitis B and HPV ~ Counseling, Education, and Referral
- Expedited Partner Treatment
For more information or appointments, call First Choice Healthcare at Kewanee at 309-852-5272; Colona at 309-792-4011; or Toulon at 309-852-3115.
There are many actions you can take to protect yourself and others from STIs:
- Abstinence – The most reliable ways to avoid infection with an STD are to abstain from sex or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner.
- Correct and consistent use of condoms – Consistent use of latex condoms reduces the risk of HIV and other STIs. (Free Supplies are available through First Choice Healthcare clinics in Kewanee, Colona & Toulon.)
- Screening – Getting tested and treated for STIs can protect you from serious health consequences caused by STIs. (STI Testing available at all First Choice Healthcare Clinics.)
- Immunizations – Receiving recommended Hepatitis B and HPV immunizations can almost completely prevent infections covered by the vaccines.