World AIDS Day acts as a reminder to get tested for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Additional testing, however, can be done for other sexually transmitted diseases such as Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and Syphilis. These often go along with HIV as all can be transmitted through sexual contact. A person who gets one STD can be at risk for others.

What many people do not know is that these infections can work together, placing ones health at even greater risk. A person who has been infected with HIV may be likely to get a more severe case of another STD. And someone infected with one of these STDs can be more likely to catch HIV if exposed.

This website is designed to give you the facts about all of these STDs; how you get them; how to recognize symptoms; how you treat them; where you can get care and how to prevent infection in the first place. It will bring you up to date information about STDs in Vermont including any breaking news about outbreaks you need to know about.

We invite you to look around and educate yourself and we encouage you to make STD testing part of your healthcare routine. Feel free to contact us with comments or questions. We are committed to providing you the information you need to stay healthy.

The CDC recommends STD testing for all persons ages 16-64. Testing is free, confidential, quick and easy. You can find locations all around Vermont. No referral or insurance is needed to get care and care is available through the Fletcher Allen Health Care Comprehensive Care Clinics.

Having HIV doesn't mean you have AIDS, but without care and treatment, it can lead to AIDS. You have to get tested to know if you have it. Testing is smart, responsible and protects you and your sexual partners.

Read Deborah L. Kutzko, A. P. R.N.'s Fletcher Allen Health Care blog post on National Health Care Testing Day.

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Some health providers offer cofidential testing while others offer anonymous. And depending on your income status you may be eligibile for free or reduced-cost testing. Find a testing location and contact them to confirm when you can get a test, what your rights are with regards to privacy, and how much you should expect to pay.