Clinical Services and Disease Intervention

To prevent and control sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), the North Carolina Communicable Disease Branch supports free testing and treatment in many diverse settings, including community-based organizations and correctional facilities. The Branch also provides partner services through the use of Disease Intervention Specialists (DIS). DIS work to interrupt the spread of disease and bring those already infected into treatment quickly. DIS assist newly STD- and HIV-infected individuals with informing their partners of their status and encouraging those partners to seek counseling, testing, treatment and related prevention services

The Role of Health Departments in STD Prevention

Local health departments are responsible for the direct delivery of free STD and HIV prevention and control services. These activities include providing clinical services, education and awareness efforts and monitoring disease trends through surveillance and epidemiology.

Education, Awareness and Professional Training

STD programs are responsible for educating the public on STDs, including the costs and consequences of the diseases and how to best prevent transmission. STD programs also help educate providers on best clinical practices, as well as helping to inform the decisions of policymakers. STD programs also collaborate with other state and local government agencies and departments, including: HIV/AIDS programs, family planning, Department of Public Instruction, and Department of Correction, to ensure that consistent and accurate STD information is incorporated into as many programs as appropriate.

CDC STD Awareness Resources for Local Health Departments

North Carolina Initiatives

• Syphilis Elimination Project


• Non-Traditional Counseling, Testing and Referral Program


• Expanded HIV and Syphilis Jail Screening Program


• Quality Assurance, Training and Development Program