HIV/AIDS & STDs

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At Carson City Health and Human Services (CCHHS), we know that sexual health is private. Our clinic offers testing and treatment for STDs that is kept strictly between you and your healthcare provider.

Most results are ready in just a few days, and we can even test for HIV in less than 15 minutes. During your visit, you can get health advice and answers to your questions in a safe, supportive place where no one will judge you. We also provide safe-sex kits and help with private ways to let partners know if they’ve been exposed.

FAQs

What illnesses are linked to HIV?

It is common for people with syphilis, gonorrhea, or herpes to also have HIV. If you have one of these, you are more likely to get HIV in the future.

Why does having an STI make it easier to get HIV?

The same behaviors that lead to STIs also lead to HIV. Plus, if an STI causes a sore or a break in your skin, it’s much easier for HIV to enter your body.

What makes the risk higher?

Having sex without a condom.

Having many different partners or partners you don't know well.
Using drugs or alcohol, which can lead to risky choices.

How can I stay Safe?

The only 100% sure way to avoid these is to wait (abstinence). If you are having sex, you can lower your risk by:

Using a condom correctly every single time.
Staying sober.
Having fewer partners.
Talking to a doctor if you think you might be at risk.
If I have HIV and get another STI, is my partner in danger?

If I have HIV and get another STI, is my partner in danger?

Yes, you could pass HIV to them. To protect them:

Take your HIV medicine (ART) to keep the virus low in your body.

Always use condoms.
Your partner can ask a doctor about PrEP, a pill that helps prevent getting HIV.

Does curing an STI stop me from getting HIV?

No. Treating an STI is important for your health and your partners, but it doesn't make you immune to HIV.

Prevention

You have the facts; now protect yourself and your sexual partners. Effective strategies for reducing Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) risk include:

Abstinence

The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex.

Vaccination

Vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended ways to prevent hepatitis B and HPV. HPV vaccines for males and females can protect against some of the most common types of HPV. It is best to get all three doses (shots) before becoming sexually active. However, HPV vaccines are recommended for all teen girls and women through age 26 and all teen boys and men through age 21, who did not get all three doses of the vaccine when they were younger. You should also get vaccinated for hepatitis B if you were not vaccinated when you were younger.

Mutual Monogamy

Mutual monogamy means that you agree to be sexually active with only one person, who has agreed to be sexually active only with you. Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner is one of the most reliable ways to avoid STDs. But you must both be certain you are not infected with STDs. It is important to have an open and honest conversation with your partner.

Reduced Number of Partners

Reducing your number of partners can decrease your risk for STDs. It is still important that you and your partner get tested, and that you share your test results with one another.

Condoms

Correct and consistent use of the male latex condom is highly effective in reducing STD transmission.

Carson City - Health

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