STI's Basics
What does STI stand for?
Sexually Transmitted Infection
If you have no symptoms, can you still give someone an STI
Yes, many show no signs.
Can HIV spread through a high five or sitting next to someone in class
NO
Who can help you decide what type of STI tests you need
A healthcare professional
You can always tell whether someone has an STI just by looking at them.
MYTH
True or False: Every person with an STI has noticeable symptoms.
False, many STI's can have no symptoms.
What is the only fully reliable way to eliminate STI risk from sexual contact?
Abstinence from sexual activity.
What insect most commonly spreads Zika?
An infected mosquito
If you are showing STI symptoms, you definitely have one. True or False?
False, the only way to know is to get tested.
Can communication be a way to prevent STI's
FACT- communication is key
What are the three categories of STI's
Bacterial, Viral, Parasitic
What barrier method reduces the risk of many STIs when used correctly and consistently?
Condoms
Do all STIs spread the exact same way?
NO, many transmission routes differ.
What is the best way to treat bacterial infections
Antibiotics
Every STI can be cured with antibiotics
MYTH- Antibiotics can treat bacterial not viral infections
Why is the term STI often used instead of STD?
A person can have an infection without developing noticeable symptoms or disease
Why is vaccination useful even before someone is exposed to an infection?
Vaccines prepare the immune system to help prevent certain infections or their complications
Besides sexual contact, what is one important way hepatitis B can spread
Contact with infected blood
Name an STI that has a vaccine available to help prevent chances of infection.
Hepatitis B or HPV
HIV and AIDS mean the exact same thing
MYTH- HIV is the virus, AIDS is an advanced stage of HIV
What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?
HIV is the virus, and AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection.
Why do condoms not completely prevent every STI?
Because some infections can spread through skin-to-skin contact in areas not covered by a condom
Is it important to communicate with partners about STI's? If so, why?
Yes it is, it is important because you want to know or a partners possible history of STI, if barrier methods will be used, or about testing options.
Name one type of sample that healthcare professionals may use for STI testing.
Blood, urine, or swab sample.
Having an STI means someone did something wrong.
MYTH — STIs are health conditions. People deserve accurate information, treatment, and respect without judgment.