DANVILLE, IN – As a service to Hendricks County residents, the Hendricks County Health Department (HCHD) continues to offer regular testing for HIV, common sexually-transmitted diseases/infections (STI), and pregnancy for free for those who qualify.
According to the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), there were 190 people living with HIV in Hendricks County in 2017, 15 of which were newly diagnosed cases. It is estimated that 1 in 5 individuals do not know their HIV status. ISDH also reports that there were 469 cases of chlamydia, 93 cases of gonorrhea, and less than 5 cases of syphilis in the county in 2017.
“It is extremely important that you are aware of your HIV or STI status so that you can receive proper medical care if needed,” says Dr. David Stopperich, Health Officer for the HCHD. “Not only is this a matter of personal health and being a responsible sexual partner, but it also helps prevent the spread of disease in the county.”
Indiana also has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the country, rising to 7.1 per 1,000 births between 2012-2016. Hendricks County’s infant mortality rate between 2012-2016 was 5.6 per 1,000 births.
“If a woman is pregnant, receiving prenatal care early in the pregnancy is important for both the baby’s and mother’s health,” informs Kandi Jamison, Director of Public Health Nursing for the HCHD.
On every third Thursday of the month from 8:30am-11:30am and 1:30pm-3:30pm, the Hendricks County Health Department Nursing Division offers free testing for HIV and pregnancy on a walk-in basis. Testing for other STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and hepatitis C is also available and may be free for those who qualify. Appointments may also be scheduled for testing throughout the week. Call (317) 745-9222 for availability.
Anyone who is 14 years or older can be tested without parental consent according to Indiana state law. Testing is completely confidential.
Treatments and case management will be provided by the Bell Flower Clinic at the Marion County Public Health Department if needed.
The HCHD Nursing Division is located at the Hendricks County Government Center, 355 S. Washington St., in Danville. For more information about the clinic, contact the HCHD Nursing Division at (317) 745-9222 or visit them online at www.co.hendricks.in.us/health.
