Clinical Education Resources

Evidence-based HIV/STI education and prevention information

HIV/AIDS Education

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks the body's immune system. Without treatment, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). With modern treatment, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives.

Transmission

  • • Unprotected sexual contact
  • • Sharing needles or syringes
  • • Mother to child during pregnancy/birth
  • • Blood transfusions (rare in U.S.)

Prevention

  • • PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)
  • • Condom use
  • • Regular testing
  • • Treatment as prevention (U=U)
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

STIs are infections passed through sexual contact. Many STIs have no symptoms, making regular testing essential for sexually active individuals.

Common STIs

  • • Chlamydia
  • • Gonorrhea
  • • Syphilis
  • • HPV
  • • Herpes

Symptoms

  • • Often no symptoms
  • • Unusual discharge
  • • Pain or burning
  • • Sores or bumps
  • • Itching or rash

Testing

  • • Annual screening
  • • After new partner
  • • If symptoms appear
  • • Free/low-cost options
  • • Confidential results
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PrEP is a daily medication that reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken as prescribed. It's recommended for people at high risk of HIV exposure.

Who Should Consider PrEP?

  • ✓People with an HIV-positive partner
  • ✓People who don't consistently use condoms
  • ✓People who inject drugs and share equipment
  • ✓People diagnosed with an STI in the past 6 months
nPEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

⚠️ EMERGENCY TREATMENT

nPEP must be started within 72 hours (3 days) of possible HIV exposure. The sooner you start, the better it works.

nPEP is a month-long course of HIV medications taken after potential exposure to HIV. It can prevent HIV infection if started quickly.

When to Use nPEP

  • • After unprotected sex with someone who has or may have HIV
  • • After sharing needles or drug equipment
  • • After sexual assault
  • • After occupational exposure

How to Get nPEP

  • • Visit an emergency room
  • • Contact your healthcare provider
  • • Call a sexual health clinic
  • • Available 24/7 in emergencies
Local Health Resources

Pasco County Health Department

Free and low-cost HIV/STI testing and treatment

Visit Website

CDC National HIV/AIDS Hotline

24/7 information and referrals

1-800-CDC-INFO (232-4636)

Additional Resources

CDC HIV/AIDS InformationHIV.gov ResourcesPlanned ParenthoodFind Testing Sites

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.