April is STI Awareness month, which is giving healthcare professionals the opportunity to educate the public about sexually transmitted infections.

Erie News Now Medical Contributor Dr. Becky Dawson says that discussions surrounding sexually transmitted infections are critical. She hopes that conversations about STI's can be normalized.

"Most of these can be treated easily if caught early," said Dr. Dawson. "There has to be some de-stigmatizing it."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has seen a rise in STI cases among adults 55 and older. Health officials in our region remind everyone they should be practicing safe sex.

"Older adults don't need to prevent pregnancy anymore, so they don't think that they need to use condoms. But condoms are important for preventing STDs," said AHN's Dr. Ellen Hancox.

To find testing locations near you, click here.