No one wants an STD — sexually-transmitted disease — and state health officials encourage safe sex practices for prevention and testing for at-risk behavior.

Statewide, a total of 561 cases of early infectious syphilis were reported for the first nine months of 2010, slightly lower than the same time last year. In North Carolina, one in 268 people is infected with HIV disease, according to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. this number includes those who may not be aware they are infected.

New research indicates medications that might prevent the spread of HIV with a daily pill may eventually become available, according to North Carolina State Health Director Jeff Engel.

“The research into HIV prevention is groundbreaking,” Engel said. “The medication was tested in specific high-risk populations, and it is effective when used along with regular testing, the use of condoms and other prevention methods.”

Though medical prevention may be in the future, Engel urges regular testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases as the best and most effective way to stop the spread in the state.

“until more studies are done, we encourage anyone who is sexually active to learn their HIV and STD status,” Engel said. “They can then take steps to protect their own health and the health of their partner.”

North Carolina AIDS Director Jacquelyn Claymore pointed to recognizing symptoms and getting tested as important steps to take to prevent the spread of disease.

“Testing for HIV and sexually transmitted diseases is available across the state at local health departments and other health centers,” Claymore said. “Responding to possible symptoms and going to the doctor earlier, rather than later, ensures that patients will get the treatment and advice they need.”

HIV — or the human immunodeficiency virus — causes AIDS, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Many people who become infected with HIV develop some early symptoms two to four weeks after they were infected. The most common symptoms are fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes and a rash that usually consists of small raised or flat lesions scattered all over the body, Claymore said.

All STD screenings are offered by any health department in North Carolina free of charge, said Lenoir County Health Director Joey Huff.

“Testing for HIV and STDs are available at the health department by appointment, and they are free to anyone,” Huff said. “If there is any question regarding at-risk behavior or unsafe sex practices, by all means we encourage that individual to be screened for the infection.”

Joel Gerber can be reached at 252-599-1076 or jgerber@freedomenc.com.

Breakout Box:

STDs reported in 2010

Lenoir County

Jones County

Greene County

North Carolina

Source: North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services