Naples — The Florida Department of Health in Collier County (DOH-Collier) is reminding residents and visitors to share the love this Valentine’s Day, not sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), STDs continue to rise in the United States. When taking the necessary steps, STDs are preventable.

DOH-Collier is proud to announce the following FREE screening events:

DOH-Collier recommends the following to reduce the risk of catching or spreading STDs:

• Abstinence. Not engaging in sexual activities is the most reliable way to avoid STDs.

• Condoms. Using condoms correctly and consistently every time during sex is a highly effective way to reduce the risk of STD transmission.

• Get Tested. It is critical for individuals to know their STD status to stop transmission and get proper treatment. Many STDs are curable, and all are treatable. It is also important that sexual partners get tested for STDs, and that they share their status with each other in an open and honest manner.

• Vaccination. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STD in the United States and can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine. The HPV vaccine protects against many types of cancers and health-related problems, such as genital warts. Routine HPV vaccination is recommended for boys and girls ages 11 to 12. Hepatitis A virus is another STD that is vaccine-preventable. Hepatitis A is found in the stool and blood of people who are infected and can be spread when someone ingests the virus, in most cases, through contaminated food, drink, or close contact. Men who have sex with men (MSM) are also at an increased risk for hepatitis A infection. Hepatitis A is very contagious. Washing your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom, before eating and drinking, or preparing food can prevent the spread of hepatitis A. The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all children over the age of one and for at risk adults. It is important to get vaccinated and practice proper hand hygiene.

• Mutual Monogamy. Mutual monogamy is agreeing to being sexually active with only one person. STDs can be avoided by being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner.

DOH-Collier offers STD services at our Naples and Immokalee sites.

For more information please call 239-252-8207 (Naples), 239-252-7300 (Immokalee) or visit http://collier.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/infectious-disease-services/std/index.html.

About the Florida Department of Health
The Department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov