Metro Atlanta and Houston continues to face one of the highest rates of HIV diagnoses in the United States, ranking among the top metropolitan areas nationally. Similarly, Memphis is currently ranked second in the nation for newly diagnosed cases among our younger population.

While community concern regarding this recent uptick is significant, the primary objective remains ensuring that everyone at risk receives testing. Because individuals may be at risk without their knowledge, accessible testing solutions are critical. Free HIV testing options, such as the Prima Home HIV 1/2 Rapid Self-Test Kit for HIV-1 and HIV-2, are available to support these screening efforts.
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Cyclospora cayetanensis causes gastroenteritis, with the extent of the illness varying based on age, condition of the host, and size of the infectious dose. Symptoms of cyclosporiasis include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal bloating and cramping, increased flatulence, nausea, fatigue, and low-grade fever. This can be augmented occasionally by vomiting, substantial weight loss, excessive diarrhea, and muscle aches.

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Dr. Chinelo Animalu, MD, is an Infectious Disease and HIV specialist and associates host an informative conversation about Infectious Diseases and disparity in the Memphis community.

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Dr. Animalu, Infectious Disease Specialist interviews Dr. Michelle Kitson, Internal Medicine Physician in Memphis, TN focused on the devastating statistics of health inequities in Shelby County, TN.

Health disparities in Shelby County, TN, highlight significant inequalities affecting various populations.

Shelby County scores 0.909 out of 1.0 on the BlueCross Health Index, slightly above the statewide average of 0.907. This index indicates overall health quality, where higher scores reflect better health outcomes.

Health outcomes vary notably by race and ethnicity, with certain groups experiencing higher rates of chronic diseases and lower access to healthcare focused on disparities related to domestic violence and racial and ethnic inequities.

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Dr Chinelo Animalu, Infectious Disease and HIV Specialist, host a masterclass in a series of podcast focused on Sexually Transmitted Diseases affecting at large our younger vunerable population. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection, also called sexually transmitted disease, caused my bacteria.

Gonorrhea bacteria can infect the urethra, rectum, female reproductive tract, mouth, throat or eyes. Gonorrhea is commonly spread during vaginal, oral or anal sexualal activity.

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Herpes is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus. This infection is primarily spread through contact with genitals or bodily fluids. STIs, also known as STDs or venereal diseases, can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Genital herpes can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. It's important to note that some individuals infected with the virus may experience very mild symptoms or none at all, yet they can still transmit the virus. Others may suffer from pain, itching, and sores around the genitals, anus, or mouth.

Currently, there is no cure for genital herpes. Symptoms often recur after the initial outbreak. However, medication can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission to others. Additionally, using condoms can aid in preventing the spread of genital herpes.

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Infectious Diseases Specialist, Dr Chinelo Animalu, MD, host of Medical Class 901 had a conversation with Let's Talk 901 host Betty Lamarr, regarding HIV in the Mid-South region, particularly in Memphis. HIV and other STD's present a significant public health concern for our younger population. This area has experienced various infectious diseases, influenced by factors such as climate, population density, and healthcare access.

The Mid-South has a notable prevalence of HIV, with specialized clinics like Midsouth Infectious Disease Associates focusing on treatment and prevention.

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HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is the virus responsible for HIV infection. This acronym can refer to either the virus itself or the infection it causes.

AIDS, which stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, represents the most advanced stage of HIV infection.

HIV specifically targets and destroys CD4 cells (CD4 T lymphocytes), which are crucial for a healthy immune system. The depletion of these cells hampers the body's ability to fend off infections, illnesses, and certain cancers.

Without treatment, HIV can progressively weaken the immune system, leading to a decline in health and potentially advancing to AIDS. This progression increases the risk of contracting other infections, such as hepatitis, tuberculosis, and some sexually transmitted infections.

However, with appropriate treatment, it is possible to prevent HIV from damaging CD4 cells, allowing the immune system to recover and maintain its defense against other infections.

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