We encourage New Yorkers to…erm…get active. But sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the rise in New York City, so protect yourself and your partner by getting tested.
The city that never sleeps shouldn’t have to wait for STI results. Look for quick tests.
March 31, 2023 — Having sex is healthy, and as New York City continues to reopen, residents have reconnected. However, new data shows an increase in reported sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in New York City between 2020 and 2021, likely due to reduced STI testing related to the COVID-19 pandemic. 19 and the decline in STI transmission in 2020. But getting cuddly doesn’t have to be risky. The Health Department is repurposing its COVID-19 infrastructure to respond to STIs. COVID-19 rapid test devices at select sexual wellness clinics are now being used for rapid STI testing.
“Whether it’s an adventure or something serious, STI testing is recommended for all New Yorkers,” said the Dr. Ashwin Vasan, Commissioner of Health. “Less wait time means less stress. Our rapid tests help keep New Yorkers safe. Get tested today.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Health’s Sexual Wellness Clinics opened their doors for COVID-19 testing and vaccination. In 2019, the Chelsea Express Clinic launched a Quickie Lab, a state-of-the-art system that provides rapid Chlamydia and Gonorrhea tests using Cepheid’s GeneXpert platform, with test results in a matter of hours instead of days. The Department of Health deployed those same devices for rapid COVID-19 testing in the summer of 2020, and installed additional Cepheid devices at other sexual health clinics to expand rapid testing during the pandemic. The Health Department has repurposed these devices for rapid chlamydia and gonorrhea testing at the Chelsea Express Clinic and the Fort Greene Express Clinic, with plans to use additional instruments to provide express STI services at other sexual wellness clinics. In the near future. The sexual wellness clinics continue to re-establish and expand services, including new PrEP continuity of care services at the Corona Sexual Wellness Clinic, mpox testing, treatment and vaccination at all operating clinics, contraception and medical abortion.
To read the full press release in English
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MEDIA CONTACT: Patrick Gallahue/Pedro Frisneda
PressOffice@health.nyc.gov
