Here are a few simple ways to stay healthy, protected, and ready for whatever the season brings.
PrEP Works Best Year-Round
Many people think about HIV prevention before a vacation or during the summer months, but HIV doesn’t take a season off.
PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, remains one of the most effective tools available to help prevent HIV when taken as prescribed. Today, there are more prevention options than ever before, including daily oral medication, bi-monthly injectable PrEP with Apretude, and twice-yearly injectable PrEP with YEZTUGO.
Staying consistent with the prevention plan you and your provider choose helps ensure you’re protected year-round, whether you’re traveling, dating, or simply living your everyday life.
Taking DoxyPEP? Don’t Forget Your Sunscreen
If you’re taking doxycycline as DoxyPEP to help reduce the risk of certain bacterial STIs after potential exposure, it’s important to remember that doxycycline can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Arizona’s intense sunshine can increase your chances of sunburn, even after relatively short periods outdoors. Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, seeking shade during peak afternoon hours, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds can all help reduce your risk of sun-related skin damage while taking DoxyPEP.
A few simple precautions can help you enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin healthy.
Stay Hydrated. Seriously.
Summer in Arizona brings extreme temperatures, making hydration an essential part of protecting your health.
Drinking enough water helps support your energy, skin health, and overall wellbeing. If you’re spending time outdoors, exercising, attending festivals, or enjoying nightlife, dehydration can happen quickly.
Remember to:
- Carry a reusable water bottle.
- Drink water consistently throughout the day.
- Replace electrolytes if you’re sweating heavily.
- Limit excessive alcohol without balancing it with water.
Your body will thank you.
Routine STI Testing Should Never Be Seasonal
Regular HIV and STI testing is an important part of taking care of yourself.
Whether you’re in a relationship, meeting new people, traveling, or simply maintaining your routine, knowing your status allows you to make informed decisions about your health.
Routine testing helps:
- Detect infections early.
- Protect both you and your partners.
- Connect you with treatment quickly if needed.
- Give you peace of mind.
Real ones know their status, no matter the season.
Schedule routine HIV and STI testing.
More Than Prevention. A Healthcare Home.
While many people first discover Spectrum Medical through PrEP or sexual health services, we’re also a comprehensive primary care provider.
Our providers deliver personalized healthcare that includes primary care, HIV treatment, PrEP services, gender-affirming care, routine testing, and pharmacy services through PrideCare Rx.
Because your health isn’t compartmentalized, your healthcare shouldn’t be either.
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Become a Patient
Whether you’re thinking about starting PrEP, due for routine HIV or STI testing, interested in injectable PrEP, or looking for a healthcare provider who sees all of you, Spectrum Medical Care Center is here to help.
Summer should be about making memories, not worrying about your health. Let our team help you stay protected all year long.