Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco — In a significant move to promote public health and awareness, the Vallarta Gay Community Center is now offering free syphilis screening tests to the local community. This initiative, led by the center’s director, Pedro López, aims to address the rising concerns of syphilis in the region and ensure timely detection and treatment.
“Right now, we are offering free syphilis tests to anyone who comes here to the center and, if they come back reactive, we are also promoting the free medication,” said López. The campaign is part of a broader effort to educate the community about the symptoms and risks associated with syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease that continues to pose a significant health challenge worldwide.
According to recent statistics, syphilis affected eight million adults in 2022 alone, with 1.1 million of those cases involving pregnant women. This alarming figure has led to complications in over 390,000 births, highlighting the critical need for early detection and proper medical care. The free screening initiative by the Vallarta Gay Community Center is a proactive step towards mitigating these risks within Puerto Vallarta.
Accessing the free tests is straightforward and requires no prior appointment. “If there are people who have arrived earlier, they will only have to wait a little, but it is not long,” assured López. This convenience is intended to encourage more individuals to take advantage of the service without the barrier of scheduling difficulties.
The center utilizes rapid tests, which can deliver results in less than 15 minutes. However, López explained that for individuals who have previously tested positive for syphilis, a blood sample must be taken and sent to a laboratory for confirmation, which takes approximately 24 hours.
In the event of a reactive test result, individuals will be promptly referred to a doctor at the center who will prescribe the necessary treatment, provided free of charge. This comprehensive approach ensures that those affected receive immediate and effective care, reducing the potential for further health complications.
The free screening campaign will run throughout the month of August, offering ample opportunity for residents and visitors alike to get tested. The Vallarta Gay Community Center is located at Morelos 101-Local 3B, in the Centro neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta. For more information or to inquire about the screening process, individuals can call 322 128 6793.
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco — In a significant move to promote public health and awareness, the Vallarta Gay Community Center is now offering free . . .
