Alexandria’s Teen Wellness Center Offering Free STI Testing This “Hallow Screen”

Spooky season is here, and so is one of Alexandria's healthiest fall traditions: Hallow-Screen. From October 26-30, Alexandria Health Department's Teen Wellness Centers will offer free, confidential sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing to all Alexandria teens.

In Alexandria, there are two Teen Wellness Center clinics located at Alexandria City High School's King Street and Minnie Howard campuses, respectively. Teens can call for appointments or stop by during normal business hours for same-day testing for STIs such as HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis.

"Getting an STI test doesn't need to be scary," said Tiyia Jean Pierre, Director of the Teen Wellness Center. "In fact, knowing your STI status can help you feel more confident in your own health and the health of your partners. Our Teen Wellness Center staff is here to make sure it's a private, easy experience for any young adult who comes in."

In addition to free STI testing, Teen Wellness Center staff will share information and free health resources such as condoms and information on how to use them at both clinic locations.

Why STI Testing Matters

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases that can spread through sexual activity. For the past decade, STI rates have been increasing in Alexandria, and anyone - including teenagers - can become infected.

Many people with an STI do not show symptoms. However, if left untreated, STIs can cause long-term damage to a person's reproductive system, and they can be passed to sexual partners unknowingly. Testing is the only way to know your STI status, and it is the first important step in getting treatment so you and your partners can maintain a healthy sex life.

STIs can be prevented by using condoms, taking preventive medication like PreP, and by having open conversations with partners about your STI status. Teens with questions about safer sex, STI testing, or treatment are encouraged to talk with a healthcare provider.

More information is available on AHD's Sexual and Reproductive Health website.

About the Teen Wellness Center

Alexandria's Teen Wellness Center provides free, confidential health services for anyone ages 12-19 who lives in the City of Alexandria. For over a decade, the Teen Wellness Center has supported teens by offering vaccines, STI and pregnancy testing, birth control and family planning, sports and school physicals, and mental health screenings.

Many services offered by the Teen Wellness Center do not require a parent's permission, and none require insurance. Teens can make their own appointments by calling 703.746.4776 or by visiting a Teen Wellness Center clinic. While clinics are located on ACHS campuses, teens do not need to be ACHS students to receive care.

More information can be found on the Teen Wellness Center website.

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available. Email [email protected] or call 703.746.3960.

Please send any media inquiries to Eve Elliott, Communications Officer at [email protected] or call 804.467.5160.