A partnership has brought free and confidential HIV/STI testing opportunities to Dallas County and public health officials talk about the importance. 

The Project of Primary Health Care and Polk County Health Department will offer free STI and HIV testing on the last Tuesday of each month at the Redfield Medical Clinic in Redfield. Dallas County Health Department Public Information Officer Ann Cochran talks about the need for the testing. 

“The number of persons in our area with diseases that are spread by sexual contact is increasing significantly. It’s been challenging for folks to find an affordable way to be tested for HIV, for STD’s without driving a long ways into Des Moines or other bigger communities.”

Cochran tells Raccoon Valley Radio there is no appointment needed and is free to anyone of any age. Cochran says services include chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, syphilis and hepatitis C testing.

“All of those diseases are on the rise here in Dallas County and many of the people who are carrying and spreading these diseases are unaware of the fact that they are infected. So, the testing is important so that you know and you can take actions to prevent the spread of these diseases.”

The next free clinic will be held on Tuesday, April 26th in Redfield.