There has been an increase in HIV and syphilis in McLennan County.
According to the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District, since Jan. 1, there have been 12 new cases of HIV diagnoses in McLennan County. 11 of those cases are believed to have been transmitted from men to men.
Since March 14, five primary and secondary cases of Syphilis have been diagnosed in the county. Those were also identified as men to men.
The health district is urging sexually active individuals to be tested for HIV and Syphilis. The district is also working with churches, businesses, social media, and dating sites to encourage using protection.
Syphilis can be cured, but delayed treatment can cause long-term negative effects. There is no cure for HIV.
The health district offers free, confidential testing at 225 W. Waco Drive, suite 209.
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