HIV/Sexual Health and Harm Reduction Services (formerly STD)
Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) are infections that can be passed on from one person to another during sexual contact. They are caused by a variety of organism including bacteria, viruses, protozoans, and parasites. Some of the most common STDs include syphilis, chlamydia, genital warts (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
STDs can lead to psychological and physical discomfort and severe complications such as infertility, premature births, blindness, and even death.
Many sexually transmitted diseases do not have any symptoms. As a result, many infections are transmitted unknowingly to others and are unreported.
Some of the common symptoms of STDs in males and females include:
- Sores, bumps, or blisters near genitals or mouth
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Slight sore throat
- Fever, chills, achy feeling
- Rectal itching, pain or discharge
- Discharge from the penis, vagina or rectum.
If you have symptoms of an STD or suspect you may have been exposed, please visit the Pottawatomie County Health Department or your physician's office.
STD/HIV Services
In order to eliminate and prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, the Pottawatomie County Health Department provides free confidential testing, evaluation, health education, and treatment for the following STDs:
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Syphilis
The Pottawatomie County Health Department provides confidential testing and referral services at no charge for HIV, through our STD and Family Planning Clinics. Treatment is not provided for HIV.
The Pottawatomie County Health Department also performs visual examination, health education, and referral services at no charge for the following STDs:
- Pubic lice (crabs)
- Genital warts
- Genital herpes
Testing is always confidential.
Fees
No fee charged for STD services.
Hours
STD services are available on a walk in basis:
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 8:30 - 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Fridays 8:30 - 11:00 a.m. only
