April marks STI Awareness Month, and local health officials in Henry and Stark counties are urging residents to “Talk. Test. Treat.” With the CDC reporting that half of all new sexually transmitted infections in the U.S. affect people aged 15 to 24, clinics in Kewanee and Toulon are stepping up efforts to encourage testing and prevention. Sexually transmitted infections continue to pose a significant health challenge in the United States, with 20 million new cases estimated each year, and young people aged 15 to 24 accounting for half of those infections. The financial impact is also staggering, with nearly $16 billion in direct medical costs.
First Choice Healthcare Clinics provide confidential STI testing, treatment, free condoms, immunizations, and counseling. Many STIs have no symptoms, making regular screenings essential. For confidential services or more information, contact First Choice Healthcare in Kewanee at 309-852-5272 or Toulon at 309-852-3115.