Sexually Transmitted
Infections Program
The
mission of the Huron County Health Department Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Program is to
reduce the number of STI's through diagnosis, treatment, and education.
The program operates on an "as-needed" basis. Authority is given
to the Public Health Department according to Public Act 368 of 1978 (revised,
October 1993).
General Information
What is STI?
STI stands for sexually
transmitted infections. Every year more than 12 million cases are
reported in the United
States. Because the infections often cause
few or no symptoms and may go untreated, both men and women
are at risk for complications from STI's. In women, STI's may lead to ectopic (tubal)
pregnancy, infertility, chronic
pelvic pain, cervical cancer and poor
pregnancy outcomes. In men, STI's may lead to sterility,
inflammation of the testicles, painful ejaculation and urination, and
chronic prostate infection. STI's include chlamydia, pelvic
inflammatory disease, gonorrhea, HIV, herpes simplex virus, human
papillomavirus and syphilis.
Condom Effectiveness
and Reliability
When used consistently and
correctly, latex condoms are very effective in preventing a variety of
STIs, including HIV infection. Most cases of condom failure probably
result from incorrect or inconsistent use.
Program Objectives
1.
To reduce the incidence of STI's
among residents of Huron County
2. To make available
comprehensive STI services to persons with economic or other access problems
who
are unable to
secure comparable services.
3. To avert the incidence of
sterility as a outcome of STI's.
4. To provide high quality and
individualized care consistent with the unique needs of each person
participating in the program.
5. To educate the general public
toward an understanding of STI's.
Program Goals
Individuals requesting STI services will be tested, given appropriate treatment and educated regarding selected STI's. Partners of individuals found to be positive for a reportable STI will be notified in a confidential manner by a public health nurse. Identities of the source individual will be kept confidential. Primary prevention is based on the identification of individuals whose behaviors put them at risk. Education is provided to:
1. Help change those
sexual behaviors
2. Help individuals avoid unknowns that may put them at risk
Description of Services
 | The Huron County Health Department provides a comprehensive STI program in a way that protects a client's dignity, privacy and confidentiality. |
| All services are provided despite race, religion, age, sex, or disabilities. |
| The STI clinic provides each client with a risk assessment. |
| The client has an intake interview with a certified nurse, practitioner or an RN who is trained in the education and treatment of STI's. |
| On-site HIV counseling and testing is available. |
| The STI clinic also tests and
treats syphillis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. |
Hours of Service
By Appointment Only.
Monday through Friday -
8 a.m. to 12:00 noon and
1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Contact Information
(989) 269-9721, ext. 141 or ext. 122
Eligibility and Cost
STI education and information is available for all citizens.