Central Nova News

As Valentine's Day approaches, the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is urging residents to practice safe sex to combat rising rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The department highlights the importance of wearing condoms and undergoing STI testing as part of its awareness campaign.

Throughout February, AHD staff will distribute condoms, lubricant, and information on testing and treatment across Alexandria. This initiative comes in response to increasing STI rates such as gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia since the early 2010s in Virginia.

AHD Nurse Manager Felicia Bendolph-Simmons emphasizes the role of condoms in preventing STIs. “Condoms are key for preventing STIs,” she states. She also notes that while birth control prevents pregnancy and PrEP prevents HIV, condoms are essential for reducing the spread of all STIs.

Residents can find free condoms at Del Pepper Community Resource Center's bathrooms along with educational pamphlets available in multiple languages. AHD advises regular STI testing as it is crucial for identifying infections and informing partners about potential risks.

Confidential STI testing is available through AHD on a sliding fee scale without insurance requirements. The department also provides DoxyPEP medication to eligible clients who have had unprotected sex within three days to prevent possible infections. For more information or appointments, individuals can contact 703.746.4988.

Health Department Director Dr. David Rose underscores that "safe sex is not about fear or avoidance," but rather about having "less stress and more enjoyment." More details on safe sex practices are accessible on AHD’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Website.

For media inquiries, Eve Elliott can be contacted at eve.elliott@vdh.virginia.gov or 804.467.5160. Free interpretation services are available by emailing LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or calling 703.746.3960.