April is STD Awareness month. As experts see it as another opportunity to raise awareness about STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) and how they impact our lives, here at AFC Urgent Care Vernon we want to help reduce STD and STI ( sexually transmitted infections)-related stigma, fear, and discrimination so that everyone can have the chance to prevent, test for, and treat STD’s.

STD’s continue to be on the rise and are very common among young adults between ages 15-24. Even though they’re common among this age group, we still want other age groups who are sexually active to get regular STD testing to prevent and treat them.

Not so fun fact: 

“According to the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC’s) annual Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance Report, cases of several common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have reached historic highs among elderly populations in the U.S. including chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis”.

AFC Urgent Care Vernon offers CONFIDENTIAL STD screening and testing making it one of the most quick and convenient places for you testing needs so you can have peace of mind. 

Here Are 5 Reasons Why You Should Get Tested For STDs 

1. Reported STDs in the U.S. dropped then resurged during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the CDC, there is preliminary data that shows that during March-April 2020, reported STD cases dramatically decreased compared to the same time in 2019. However, a resurgence in gonorrhea and syphilis cases later in the year suggest overall STDs have increased during 2020. 

2.  “Hook up” culture, and other outlets that promote sexual behavior is a growing concern for individuals staying STD free. Dating apps have increased in competition since the pandemic began. Most singles are now “blunt” when it comes to dating and are saying what they’re looking for on a first date. "Are you looking for casual sex or marriage?”. 

3. Symptoms for STDs usually don’t show up right away making it a big reason for you to get tested regularly. Many people can have an STD or STI and not know they have one! If an STD is left untreated or undetected, it may lead to serious health complications and conditions. For instance, going untreated or undetected may increase your risk of becoming infertile, or passing it to newborns. Most STDs and STIs are treatable. The sooner you get tested, the sooner you can start treatment.

4. Unprotected sex and sex with multiple partners are two of the biggest factors that can increase your risk of developing an STD or STI, which is why it’s important to get tested regularly. Regardless of age, if you are sexually active, you should get tested at least once a year. If you are sexually active with more than one partner then you should get tested more periodically throughout the year.

5. Getting tested is quick, easy and confidential at AFC Urgent Care Vernon! What more of a reason do you need to know your status when you can walk-in any day of the week and get tested by your local AFC Urgent Care in Vernon, CT that you can trust.

Confidential STD Testing At AFC Urgent Care Vernon

Can’t book an STD screening with your primary care doctor? Why wait when you can visit AFC Urgent Care in Vernon

• We offer weekday hours from 8a-8p and weekend hours from 8a-5p making it easy for you to walk-in after work or school to get tested. Or you can now make an appointment!

• Our locations have in-house labs, so you’re able to get your results faster and are often less expensive than at other clinics.

• Our providers can write prescriptions, so if any medications are needed, you can pick them up where you choose discreetly and conveniently. 

Don’t put off testing. Most STDs don’t show symptoms right away and if left undetected or untreated may lead to health complications in the future. Always practice safe sex and if you’re seeing someone new, it’s always a good idea to get regular testing to have peace of mind.