RHHD reminds residents about free condom distribution
In recognition of Valentine's Day as National Condom Day, officials from the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts are reminding local residents that RHHD provides free condoms year-round.
“Using a condom is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your sexual health,” said RHHD Director Elaine Perry. “When used correctly, condoms are highly effective at preventing sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis and HIV.”
Sexually transmitted infections remain a significant public health concern in Virginia, according to the RHHD; more than 54,000 STIs were reported in Virginia in 2024.
And, the rate of newly diagnosed cases of syphilis among women increased 144% from 2020 to 2024. During the same time period, newly diagnosed syphilis cases among all genders increased 65% in Henrico County and 117% in Richmond.
Cases of congenital syphilis (when a pregnant woman passes syphilis to a baby during pregnancy or childbirth) increased for the fifth straight year in Virginia. In 2024, 35 cases of congenital syphilis were reported among newly born infants, the highest case count observed in more than 30 years in Virginia.
Because many STIs, including syphilis, often show no symptoms, people can spread them without knowing it. Using condoms consistently and correctly is an effective way to reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy, according to the RHHD.
The RHHD is one of 35 local arms of the Virginia Department of Health, which distributes condoms statewide through its Condom Distribution Program.
Free condoms are available at RHHD and through community partner organizations; call (804) 205-3500 to locate free condoms nearby.
Organizations interested in becoming distribution sites should contact the HIV-STD Hotline Supervisor at HIV-stdhotline@vdh.virginia.gov. Participating organizations may order as many as 100,000 condoms per year.
RHHD officials also can help residents decide if medicine to prevent HIV (PrEP) or STIs (DoxyPEP) are right for them; call (804) 664-2125 to learn more.
