STD/HIV/HCV Program
About Our Program
The goal of our program is to prevent, treat, and/or control the spread of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and Hepatitis C (HCV) to protect the health of the community. If you are sexually active, or planning to be, getting tested is one of the most important steps you can take to protect the health of you and your partner. The ONLY way to know for sure if you or someone else has an STD, HIV, or HCV is to get tested.
What Causes STDs, HIV, and HCV?
- Most commonly spread through unprotected vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
- Skin-to-skin genital contact can also spread STDs.
- STDs are not caused by casual contact like hugging, holding hands, or toilet seats.
- Infections such as HIV and HCV can spread through non-sexual routes such as drug and medical device sharing.
Signs and Symptoms
Many people who have an STD experience little or no symptoms. Others may experience:
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Prevention Strategies
- The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex (i.e., anal, vaginal, or oral).
- Engaging in safer sex, including using condoms or dental dams. Correct and consistent use of condoms every time you have anal, vaginal, or oral sex can decrease your risk of infection.
- Reducing your number of sexual partners can decrease your risk of infection.
- Staying up to date on vaccines is a safe and effective way to prevent Hepatitis A/B and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
- Do not share syringes, drug preparation items, or medical devices with others.
- Talk openly with your partner(s) about sexual health!
Our Services
We provide STD/HIV/HCV testing, counseling, and treatment (as needed).
Clinic Schedule
- Wednesdays / 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. / Nashua Public Library (2 Court Street, Nashua, NH)
- Walk-in services, no appointment needed - look for our mobile van!
- Thursdays / 3 - 6 p.m. / DPHCS Community Health Clinic (18 Mulberry Street, Nashua, NH)
- Services by appointment, call 603-589-4500, option 2
- 2nd & 4th Friday of the Month / 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. / Laton House (28 Railroad Square, Nashua)
- Walk-in services, no appointment needed - look for our mobile van!
Testing
Testing fees are based on a set of criteria. Some clients will have no fees. No one will be turned away due to inability to pay.
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You can also request a free HIV test kit at home by completing this form.
Treatment
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Reminders
- Be sure to talk to a healthcare provider to complete the course of recommended treatment.
- Inform your sexual partner(s) of any positive test results so they can get tested and properly treated.
- Do NOT resume sexual activities until a healthcare provider says its okay.
- Talk openly with your partner(s) about sexual health!
Resources
- Need condoms? Order 25 free condoms here (NH HIV Planning Group)
- DPHCS STD Brochure (English / Spanish) (PDF)
- DPHCS STD/HIV/HCV Clinics Postcard (PDF)
- DPHCS HIV Self-Test Postcard (PDF)
- CDC STD Website
- NH DHHS STD and HIV Prevention Website