Introduction:

• Sexually transmitted infections (STI) cause significant morbidity and mortality.
• Control of STI, is a key intervention in the fight against HIV/AIDS and is one of the key areas of focus for the national strategic plan.
• Prevalent STI's include: Chlamydia Trachomatis, Herpes simplex, Neisseria Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Syphilis (Treponema pallidum).

Recommendations for Screening:

Any sexually active person may be exposed to an STI and request to be screened. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends the following:

• All adults and adolescents ages from 13 - 64 should be tested for HIV at least once a year.
• Annual Chlamydia screening of all sexually active women younger than 25 years, as well as older women with risk.
• Factors such as new or multiple sex partners, or a sex partner who has a sexually transmitted infection.
• Annual Gonorrhea screening for all sexually active women younger than 25 years, as well as older women with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners, or a sex partner who has a sexually transmitted infection.
• Syphilis, HIV, Chlamydia and Hepatitis B screening for all pregnant women, and Gonorrhea screening for at-risk.
• Pregnant women starting early in pregnancy, with repeat testing as needed.
• Screening at least once a year for Syphilis, Chlamydia, and Gonorrhea for all sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM).
• MSM who have multiple or anonymous partners should be screened more frequently for STI's. ( i.e.3- 6-month intervals).
• Anyone who has unsafe sex or shares injection drug equipment should test for HIV at least once a year.
• Sexually active gay and bisexual men may benefit from more frequent testing. (e.g. every 3 to 6 months).

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