Let’s Talk About… STIs and Infectious Diseases

Important Information about Infectious Diseases

We screen for them!

Quick Fact: Many viral infections remain silent for years!

Infectious Diseases We Screen For:

• Hepatitis B
  • Spreads through blood, unprotected sex, and sharing needles.
  • You may not feel sick, but the virus can still harm your liver.
  • Early treatment can prevent serious health problems.
• Hepatitis C
  • A serious liver infection that spreads through blood contact, like sharing needles.
  • Many people don’t feel sick at first.
  • Prescribed medicine can cure Hepatitis C.
• HIV
  • Weakens your body’s ability to fight infections.
  • Spreads through unprotected sex or blood.

Free Resources

findhelp.org

Find free or reduced-cost resources like food, housing, financial assistance, healthcare, and more.

hbi-dc.org

Let us help you find free testing and affordable healthcare.

Your health matters!

Understanding Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

There are two different medications for HIV: PrEP & PEP

1. PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)
   • Daily pill taken before exposure.
   • For people at high risk of HIV.
   • Reduces risk of infection by over 99%.
2. PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)
   • Taken after potential exposure to HIV.
   • Must be started within 72 hours of exposure.
   • 28 days of treatment.

Syphilis

• An infection spread through sex.
• Starts with painless sores or rashes.
• Can be cured with antibiotics if found early.

Prevention Methods

How do I prevent infectious diseases?

Get Tested Regularly.

Practice Safe Sex. Use Condoms.

DO NOT Share Needles.

Get Vaccinated!

Key Fact: You might have an infection even if you feel fine!

Contact Us

Phone: (202) 220-8583

Email: info@hbi-dc.org

Address: 8200 Greensboro Dr, 9th Floor, McLean, VA 22102

Website: hbi-dc.org

This material is sponsored by Gilead Sciences. Content developed by Health Betterment Initiative with Support from GMU School of Public Health and Rutgers University.