Orleans jail will test inmates for STDs

A new program at the Orleans Parish jail will provide testing and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases to inmates, as well as helping guide people to clinics that can continue care after the inmates are released, Criminal Sheriff Marlin Gusman announced Friday.

Not everyone arrested and booked at the jail's Intake and Processing Center will be tested. But anybody who ends up staying at the jail for a couple of days will receive comprehensive testing for sexually transmitted diseases, as well as counseling and any needed treatment, said Dr. Samuel Gore, the jail's medical director.

Targeting the jail population is important because inmates are "the most at-risk population," Gusman said.

The initiative is a partnership with the city and state health offices, which will provide staff and laboratory support to assist jail medical staff. The state Office of Public Health will work with people who test positive.

The tests will cover gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis and HIV, all sexually transmitted diseases prevalent in Louisiana. According to a 2007 report, Louisiana ranks first nationally for prevalence of syphilis and second for gonorrhea.

Inmates will be referred to the Delgado Personal Health Clinic on North Rampart Street for treatment once they are released.

The program expands on an initiative that began last year to provide HIV testing, counseling and treatment to woman inmates. Gore said the inmates embraced the program, with many receptive to learning their status.

"Mostly they hear about it from someone else, and they offer to get tested themselves. They are volunteering," Gore said.

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Laura Maggi can be reached at lmaggi@timespicayune.com or at 504.826.3316.