Syphilis Testing near me in Harvey, Illinois

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, but it's especially prevalent among men who have sex with men. Additionally, individuals with HIV or those who have multiple sexual partners should consider regular testing. Pregnant women should also get tested for syphilis as it can be passed to the unborn child, leading to serious complications.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial because it's often known as the “great imitator” due to its wide range of symptoms that can mimic other diseases. Early detection and treatment can prevent long-term complications such as damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Untreated syphilis can also increase the risk of HIV transmission.

Syphilis testing options in Harvey, IL:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers such as Local MD Urgent Care in Homewood, IL, and Midwest Express Clinic in Tinley Park, IL, offer syphilis testing. These clinics often provide same-day and next-day appointments, which can be conveniently booked through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another option for syphilis testing. They can provide a comprehensive sexual health check-up and guide you through the testing process.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost STD testing. However, it's essential to check whether syphilis testing is included in their services.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and privacy. They can be ordered online and come with clear instructions on how to collect and send back the sample.

Prevalence of syphilis in Harvey

Harvey, located in Cook County, has seen an increase in syphilis cases over the years, mirroring the national trend. According to the CDC, the rate of syphilis in Cook County is higher than in nearby counties such as Fulton County and Williams County.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Harvey

Risk factors for syphilis in Harvey include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and being a man who has sex with men. The presence of other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis can also increase the risk of contracting syphilis.

Other STDs in Harvey

In addition to syphilis, other common STDs in Harvey include gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis. The prevalence of these STDs is also higher in Harvey compared to nearby cities such as Riverdale, South Holland, Posen, Markham, and Dolton. Regular testing for these STDs is recommended for sexually active individuals.