Syphilis Testing near me in Mercer Island, Washington

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, but it is particularly prevalent among men who have sex with men. However, it's important to note that syphilis can also be transmitted through direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Pregnant women should also get tested for syphilis as it can be passed to the unborn child, leading to serious complications. If you've had unprotected sex, have multiple sexual partners, or a partner who has tested positive for syphilis, it is crucial to get tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is vital as it is often known as the 'great imitator' due to its ability to mimic other diseases. If left untreated, it can lead to severe health complications such as brain, nerve, eye, heart, blood vessel, liver, bones, and joint damage. Early detection and treatment can prevent these complications and stop the spread of the disease to others.

Syphilis testing options in Mercer Island, WA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are excellent options for syphilis testing in Mercer Island. These centers, like Indigo in nearby Seattle, provide same-day and next-day appointments, which you can easily book through Solv's website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also test for syphilis. They may be particularly helpful if you have a long-standing relationship and feel comfortable discussing your sexual health with them.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers in and around Mercer Island also offer syphilis testing, often on a sliding fee scale based on your income. Some centers may even offer free STD testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another option. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your own home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of syphilis in Mercer Island

Mercer Island, located in King County, has seen a rise in syphilis cases in recent years, mirroring a national trend. According to the CDC, King County has a higher rate of syphilis compared to nearby counties like Sherman County, Pierce County, and Wasco County.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Mercer Island

Risk factors for syphilis in Mercer Island include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and a previous history of STDs. Men who have sex with men are particularly at risk.

Other STDs in Mercer Island

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Mercer Island. Like syphilis, these diseases can often be asymptomatic, which makes regular testing crucial.

Remember, you can book same-day and next-day appointments for STD testing at over 50 locations in and around Mercer Island through Solv's website and mobile app.