What is the Sexual Health Action Group?
The Sexual Health Action Group (SHAG) is an outreach-based program that focuses on HIV/STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) education and prevention. SHAG services all Guilford County residents and is associated with the Guilford County Division of Public Health. The SHAG outreach team provides HIV/STI screenings and education in community locations in Guilford County such as universities, apartment complexes, homeless shelters, nightclubs, mobile clinics, and other community events.
Services We Offer:
- STI testing and linkage to treatment for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. All testing services are no-cost and confidential and do not require proof of insurance or ability to pay.
- Free safer sex supplies, such as condoms and lubricants, to anyone requesting these items. Our team can provide bulk supplies for local businesses and organizations to be given out to community members.
- If you are a business/organization and would like to request bulk safer sex supplies to be given out at your location.
- HIV/STI Health Education Sessions – our team members are prepared to educate on STIs and condom use to audiences of all sizes and venues.
- PrEP referrals - PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication that can be taken to prevent someone from getting HIV through sex. Please call 336-641-3782 to speak with our PrEP coordinator who is ready to assist in linking you to a PrEP provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once in their lifetime. For people with certain risk factors, CDC recommends getting tested at least once a year. CDC recommends testing at least once a year for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Those who have multiple or anonymous sex partners should be tested more frequently (e.g., every three (3) to six (6) months).
HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B & C
HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C screenings are performed through a blood draw. One blood draw will collect samples that can be tested for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C. Hepatitis B and C testing will be performed on individuals by request or if patient behaviors indicate that this screening is needed.
HIV Rapid Test
An HIV rapid test is not used for regular testing however, outreach staff may perform this test if the patient indicates that this screening is needed.
Gonorrhea and Chlamydia
Gonorrhea and chlamydia screenings are performed through urine samples and swabs of the mouth and anus. A simple urine sample will be collected to test patients for gonorrhea and chlamydia. As needed, rectal and/or oral swabs will be used to collect an appropriate specimen for testing. These types of testing are indicated when a patient may be engaged in oral/rectal sex exclusively.
How do I get my test results?
No news is good news! The Health Department will ONLY reach out to you if you have a positive test result. All clients can contact our SHAG team to check on test results approximately three (3) weeks after your testing date. You can call a SHAG team member at 336-641-3782 or 336-641-6435 or 336-641-7573.
You may request a paper copy of your results by calling a SHAG team member to schedule a time and date to pick up your results during regular business hours. This is the only method to receive a physical copy of test results if tested with the outreach team. You will be required to show a photo ID or other identification to receive results in person.
Reach out by phone or email to make a request for community testing, community education, or condom distribution. Please call 336-641-3863 or email shag@guilfordcountync.gov if you would like to request any of our services.