Syphilis Testing near me in Lincoln, Illinois

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, though certain groups are more at risk. These include men who have sex with men, individuals with HIV, and those who have multiple sexual partners. Additionally, if you live in an area with a high prevalence of syphilis, such as Lincoln, IL, you may also be at a higher risk. Pregnant women should also get tested for syphilis, as it can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial as it is a highly infectious disease that can cause serious health problems if left untreated, such as damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Furthermore, syphilis can increase your risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV. The good news is that syphilis is curable with the right treatment. Early detection through testing is key to preventing the spread of the disease and its potential health complications.

Syphilis testing options in Lincoln, IL:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer convenient, same-day syphilis testing. PromptCare - OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, located in Normal, IL, is a highly-rated option with a 4.94 rating based on 22 reviews. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at this location through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another reliable option for syphilis testing. They can provide comprehensive sexual health screenings and follow-up care. DMH Express Care North in Decatur, IL is a local primary care provider that offers STD testing.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing is available at community health centers for those who may not have insurance or who cannot afford the testing fees. Family Quick Care in Normal, IL is one such center that offers free STD testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are also available for those who prefer privacy and convenience. These kits can be ordered online and come with clear instructions on how to collect and send back the sample for testing.

Prevalence of syphilis in Lincoln

Lincoln, IL, located in Logan County, has seen an increase in syphilis cases in recent years, mirroring the national trend. Comparatively, the prevalence of syphilis in Lincoln is higher than in nearby cities such as Hartsburg, Beason, Atlanta, Mount Pulaski, and Elkhart. The increase in syphilis cases in Lincoln could be attributed to various factors, including increased testing and changes in sexual behavior.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Lincoln

Risk factors for syphilis in Lincoln include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and having other sexually transmitted infections. Men who have sex with men and individuals with HIV are also at a higher risk.

Other STDs in Lincoln

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Lincoln. It's important to note that having one STD can increase your risk of getting another. Therefore, comprehensive STD testing is recommended for sexually active individuals.