July

This Month In Health is updated with information on monthly awareness topics in health. Read on to explore this month’s topics.

Infectious Disease Screenings are Important

Early detection saves lives. Whether you are active duty or a family member, infectious disease screenings are a vital part of staying mission-ready and family-strong.

Why Screening Matters

Regular screening can help you stay healthy.

• Detect diseases before symptoms appear.
• Prevent the spread to loved ones and unit members.
• Stay in peak health to serve and support.

Who Should Get Screened?

Not everyone needs screening. Examples of who should be screened:

• Active duty service members (as part of readiness and annual assessments).
• Beneficiaries with risk factors (for example, recent exposure, travel, pregnancy).
• Anyone sexually active.
• Those with chronic health conditions.

Common Infectious Disease Screenings

Here are a few common infectious diseases and their screening recommendations:

• HIV: Screening should be at least once between ages 13 and 64; more often if at risk.
• Hepatitis C: Screening should take place annually for adults born 1945-1965 or with risk factors.
• Chlamydia and gonorrhea: Schedule an annual screening if you are under 25 and sexually active.
• Tuberculosis: Get screened if you came into contact with someone infected, recently traveled to a high-risk area, or work in healthcare.

If you want to learn about which screenings are right for you, reach out to your provider.

Resources

• Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• HIV Testing Overview
• CDC: Getting Tested for STIs
• TRICARE: Infectious Disease Screening
• CDC: Tuberculosis Basics
• Hepatitis C Basics