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STD/HIV Control Program:
Rensselaer County Department of Health
Troy, NY 12180
(518)270-2655
Services include:
- Sexually transmitted disease surveillance
- Education and follow up for persons recently diagnosed with gonorrhea, chlamydia or syphilis
- Confidential partner services for select diagnoses
- Free and confidential testing and treatment for STD
Anonymous testing for HIV
HIV is a virus that can cause AIDS. The HIV antibody test can tell if you have been infected by the virus.
The anonymous HIV counseling and testing program provides counseling to discuss your concerns about HIV infection and AIDS. Counselors can help you identify ways to reduce your risk.
Free anonymous HIV antibody testing with appropriate referrals is available through the Rensselaer County Department of Health. No names are used.
For more information call: (518)270-2655
Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Clinic
Rensselaer County Department of Health
1600 7th Avenue
Troy, NY 12180
(518)270-2655
The STD Clinic staff is committed to providing high quality STD/HIV care to you in a non-judgmental and caring manner. We provide education about STDs and HIV and talk with you about ways to reduce risky sexual behavior and promote healthier choices. Many STDs and HIV are not curable, so prevention is the only "medicine." Your health is our concern.
This is a public health clinic and your confidentiality is protected by public health laws. Everything you tell us is completely confidential.
All services are free and minors (under 18 years of age) do not need their parent's consent to be seen. No Appointment is needed.
Walk in Hours:
General FAQs:
What is gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea, a bacterial disease, is spread through sexual activity. The bacteria which causes gonorrhea grows in warm moist areas of the reproductive tract, including the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes in women; and in the urethra in women and men. The bacteria can also grow in the mouth, throat and anus.
How do people get gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea is spread through any sexual contact with an infected person. Gonorrhea can also be spread from mother to child during birth and to other unlikely parts of the body. For example, a person can get an eye infection after touching infected genitals and then the eyes. Individuals who have had gonorrhea and received treatment may get infected again if they have sexual contact with an infected person.
Who is at risk for gonorrhea?
Any sexually active person can be infected with gonorrhea. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the highest rates of infection are usually found in people under the age of thirty. Gonorrhea is spread through sexual contact with an infected person.
What are the signs and symptoms of gonorrhea?
When initially infected, the majority of men have some signs or symptoms, including a burning sensation when urinating and a yellowish white discharge from the penis. Sometimes men with gonorrhea develop painful or swollen testicles.
In women, the early symptoms of gonorrhea are often mild, and many women who are infected have no symptoms. The initial symptoms in women include a painful or burning sensation when urinating and a vaginal discharge that is yellow or occasionally bloody. Women with no or mild symptoms are still at risk of developing serious complications from the infection. Untreated gonorrhea in women can develop into pelvic inflammatory disease which can lead to infertility.
Is there a cure for gonorrhea?
Yes, antibiotics are used to kill the germs. But, while medicines can cure the disease, they can not repair any damage that may have already been done to the body. That's why it is important to start treatment as quickly as possible.
It is important to take all of the medicine prescribed to cure gonorrhea, even if the symptoms stop before all the medication is gone.
What sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are reportable to the New York State Health Department?
All newly diagnosed cases of Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and Syphilis are reported to the New York State Health Department.
For providers, how can I report a new sexually transmitted disease?
For confidential reporting of gonorrhea, chlamydia or syphilis, call the Rensselaer County Department of Health at (518)270-2655.
Is HIV reported to the New York State Department of Health?
Yes, beginning in June 2000, medical providers are required to report HIV to the New York State Department of Health.
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