STIs on Rise In Alexandria, Health Department Distributes Condoms

ALEXANDRIA, VA — As Valentine's Day approaches, the Alexandria Health Department is cautioning residents about an increase in sexually transmitted infections.

Data from the Virginia Department of Health shows gonorrhea and chlamydia rates have increased steadily since the early 2010s. Syphilis cases are trending down in Alexandria but have seen a slight uptick statewide. The rate of HIV cases was increasing a few years ago but took a downward turn.

The health department has not pinpointed the main factor in the STI increase. However, health officials are working to address the infections with resources for safe sex rather than abstinence alone.

"Safe sex is not about fear or avoidance," said Dr. David Rose, the Alexandria Health Department's director. "Instead, it’s about learning safe, effective ways to have sex with less stress and more enjoyment."

One way the health department is addressing increasing STIs will be sharing resources around the city in February. That includes distributing condoms, lubricant, and information about STI testing and treatment.Free condoms are already available in bathrooms at the Del Pepper Community Resource Center along with lubricant and multi-lingual pamphlets explaining how to properly use condoms.

"Condoms are key for preventing STIs," said Felicia Bendolph-Simmons, the Alexandria Health Department's nurse manager. "We have to remember that birth control only prevents pregnancy - not STIs. Also, [pre-exposure prophylaxis] only prevents HIV. To prevent the spread of all STIs, we encourage people to use condoms."

The health department also encourages sexually active residents to receive regular STI testing. That testing is the only way to identify and STI, get treatment and inform partners, according to the health department. STI testing is available through the health department at a sliding fee scale. Health insurance is not required. Eligible clients who had unprotected sex in the last three days can also get a treatment called DoxyPEP to prevent potential infections. For more information, call 703-746-4988.