The Health Department joins health officials and agencies around the country to recognize April as Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Awareness Month. On April 12, Norwalk Mayor Harry W. Rilling presented Norwalk Health Department officials and staff with a proclamation to recognize the importance of testing and treatment for STDs.
In addition to the Mayor's proclamation, the Health Department will offer free STD testing, with no appointment necessary at three times during the month:
- Monday, April 17, 9 am – 11:30 am
- Wednesday, April 19, 3 pm – 5:30 pm
- Friday, April 21, from 9 am – 11:30 am
Importantly, the Health Department offers a walk-in STD clinic at these same times year-round. No appointment is necessary during these times, and the fee is $10.
STDs are a serious public health concern nationwide, as well as right here in Norwalk. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 20 million new sexually transmitted infections occur every year in this country, and many of these cases go undiagnosed. Almost half are young people, ages 15 to 24.
According to the Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH), approximately 13,269 new cases of chlamydia, 2,092 new cases of gonorrhea, and 99 new cases of syphilis were reported statewide in 2015. Although chlamydia and gonorrhea continue to have the highest numbers of annual cases, syphilis rates are increasing rapidly (a 19% increase in syphilis cases from 2014 to 2015).
“STD testing is crucial because often there are no signs or symptoms to serve as a warning,” says Norwalk Director of Health Timothy Callahan. “Early detection is key and can help prevent the spread of STDs and reduce the number of the major complications.”
For more information about the Health Department’s STD testing services, call (203) 854-7776 or visit our STD Clinic page.