News Release

The New Jersey AIDS Hotline is now the New Jersey AIDS/STD Hotline and callers can obtain important information on AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases.

Callers to the hotline ( 1-800-624-2377 ) can now receive information and referrals on HIV and STDs including syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia and learn ways to reduce the risk of transmission of the diseases. In addition, callers can get information on free testing sites for both HIV and STDs and about treatment options.

"For the first time in New Jersey, accurate information on all sexually transmitted diseases will be available over the phone any time of day by calling our toll-free Hotline," said Dr. Leah Ziskin, Deputy Commissioner of Public Health Services at the Department of Health and Senior Services. "We are combining our information resources because studies show that people with STDs have a higher rate of transmitting and contracting HIV."

Existing AIDS Hotline staff were trained by the Department's Sexually Transmitted Diseases Program. No additional funding is required for the expanded Hotline.

The New Jersey HIV Prevention Community Planning Group recommended that STD information be offered through the AIDS Hotline. The group represents community members throughout the state who develop HIV prevention strategies for people most at risk of HIV exposure.

The New Jersey AIDS Hotline was established by the department in 1986 as part of New Jersey's overall response to the AIDS crisis. The New Jersey AIDS/STD Hotline operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.