How, when and where to get tested for sexually transmitted infections in Tarrant County

Cases of sexually transmitted infections are surging in Tarrant County and nationwide. Here’s when and where to get tested.

When to get tested:

• If you think you have been exposed to HIV, you should immediately go to a doctor’s office or sexual health provider to ask about a post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP, regimen. If taken within 72 hours after an HIV exposure, PEP can greatly reduce your risk of becoming infected with the virus, but it is most effective the sooner it is taken after exposure.
• If you think you have been exposed to a different infection, you will likely have to wait between five and seven days to take a test. If you take a test too early, you might get a false negative before the infection is detectable.

Where to get tested:

Free HIV, syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea tests are available at Tarrant County Public Health and at the AIDS Outreach Center. Many other providers provide services that are free or are offered on a sliding scale; for a full list, visit gettested.cdc.gov.

This story was originally published May 21, 2023 at 6:00 AM.

Ciara McCarthy

Fort Worth Star-Telegram

817-203-4391

Ciara McCarthy covers health and wellness as part of the Star-Telegram’s Crossroads Lab. She came to Fort Worth after three years in Victoria, Texas, where she worked at the Victoria Advocate. Ciara is focused on equipping people and communities with information they need to make decisions about their lives and well-being. Please reach out with your questions about public health or the health care system. Email cmccarthy@star-telegram.com or call or text 817-203-4391.