There is a wide range of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that sexually active Vermonters may be exposed to or infected with. These germs may be viruses (HIV, HPV), bacteria (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis) or parasites (pubic lice or crabs, trichomonaisis). Many STDs are treatable or can be cured, but the medications and protocols differ from germ to germ. The populations who are most affected by individual STDs are varied. Like STD treatments, STD testing guidance is not universal across all germs or for all risk populations.
We can help health care providers navigate these variables. The Health Department promotes testing and treatment guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We help ensure that Vermont medical providers have access to the latest information and implement best practices for their patients. CDC supports Expedited Partner Therapy for treatment of STDs. Expedited Partner Therapy for chlamydia and gonorrhea is legally permitted in Vermont and is something we strongly encourage providers to deliver.
In some cases, the Health Department can provide specific medications to clinicians to treat syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia infections in their patients. Medical providers can contact us in order to provide support services to Vermonters who are newly diagnosed with bacterial STD infections. We can help patients better understand what their STD diagnosis and treatment means for them. On a free and voluntary basis, the Health Department can assist people diagnosed with bacterial STDs to notify their sexual partners and link these partners to testing or treatment.
For more information:
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The Vermont Department of Health Laboratory performs clinical testing in the following areas: Bacteriology, Mycology and Mycobacteriology, Virology, Parasitology, Serology, Molecular Subtyping, Urine Drug Testing and Blood Lead Testing
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Patients can access free condoms at many Health Department offices in Vermont