News Summary
On April 10, the South Carolina State Department of Public Health (SC DPH) is offering free STD and HIV testing across the state. This initiative coincides with STI Awareness Week and National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, aiming to increase awareness and reduce stigma surrounding these infections. Focused particularly on younger populations, the SC DPH is also implementing tailored programs to support at-risk communities. Join the health organizations for vital resources and testing opportunities, and mark your calendar for an informative day dedicated to sexual health.
Free STD and HIV Testing Coming to South Carolina
Gather around folks! If you’re in South Carolina, you’ll want to pay attention to this essential news. The South Carolina State Department of Public Health (SC DPH) is rolling out a golden opportunity for you to get free STD and HIV testing. Mark your calendars for April 10, as community health organizations gear up to support you and your health needs. This is in celebration of STI Awareness Week and National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.
Aiming for Awareness
The primary goal of this initiative is straightforward yet vital: to boost awareness about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV, with a particular focus on the younger population. STI Awareness Week shines a spotlight on these health topics, aiming to educate the masses. By doing so, the SC DPH hopes to decrease the stigma, fear, and discrimination associated with these infections.
In many counties across South Carolina, various local offices of the SC DPH are getting involved in this testing event. It’s a fantastic chance for everyone to know their status and engage in preventive measures. If you’re wondering where to go for testing, simply give the DPH STD/HIV Hotline a call at 1-800-322-AIDS (1-800-322-2437) for more information on testing locations.
Programs Tailored for Youth
The SC DPH isn’t just stopping at free testing; they actively partner with communities to create programs aimed specifically at those at a higher risk for STIs, and that includes our youth and young adults. According to recent data from 2023, there’s promising news from the world of STI prevention. The use of Doxy-PEP (doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis) can significantly help in preventing STIs when taken within 72 hours of exposure. How incredible is that?
Now, while the rates for chlamydia and gonorrhea show improvement, there’s also a concern as syphilis cases continue to rise at a slower pace. This highlights the necessity for ongoing education, testing, and treatment — the SC DPH is on it! They promote and ensure access to treatment and support for all affected by HIV and STIs.
Exciting Events on the Horizon
If you’re looking for in-person interaction, an in-person PrEP Symposium is scheduled for Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and gather resources on PrEP and more.
Celebrating Awareness at Colleges
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Columbia Hosts Inspiring Gathering for World AIDS Day, Highlighting Hope and Progress in HIV Awareness
Columbia Commemorates World AIDS Day with Community Gathering and Hope for the Future
Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Wikipedia: Health care in the United States
- ABC Columbia
- Google Search: STD HIV testing South Carolina
- Live 5 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexually transmitted disease
- WLTX
- Google News: HIV testing South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
