In the United States, around 1.2 million people have the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), but 13% of them don’t realize it. At Cermak Immediate Care in Cicero and the Pilsen & McKinley Park neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois, their team can screen for and treat HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Schedule an Human Immunodeficiency Virus test at Cermak Immediate Care by calling the office or using the online booking feature today. Walk-ins are also welcome.
HIV is an STD caused by a virus that spreads from person to person through blood contact — partially sharing needles — or vaginal, anal, or oral sex. HIV infects and destroys cells within the immune system, weakening it and making it harder to fight other diseases.
If HIV significantly weakens the immune system, it progresses into a form of the disease called acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Without treatment, HIV will develop into AIDS after about 10 years.
Having unprotected sex (or sharing intravenous drug needles) with someone infected with HIV is how this disease and other STDs spread. Babies can contract HIV from their mothers during childbirth or via breast milk.
Populations with higher rates of HIV include people who are Hispanic and Black, persons who exchange sex for money, and men who have sex with men. However, anyone with STD risk factors can contract HIV.
You might not notice symptoms of HIV, which is why routine STD testing (especially if you’re at risk) is necessary. Early potential symptoms of HIV include:
When these initial flu-like symptoms subside, you might not have other symptoms of HIV for years, but you can still spread the virus to others.
If untreated HIV develops into AIDS, your risk of some cancers, infections, and neurological conditions rises.
Diagnosing HIV at Cermak Immediate Care includes a discussion of your symptoms and reviews of your medical history, medications, and lifestyle. Your specialist might order blood or saliva tests to screen for HIV and other STDs. In some cases, you’ll need a second test.
HIV can’t be cured, but treating it reduces your risk of spreading HIV to other people and slows the disease’s progression. Treatment consists of taking medications (antiretroviral therapy). You must continue treatment indefinitely to protect your immune system, lessen the risk of AIDS, and reduce disease transmission.
Some medications diminish the chance of contracting HIV in people recently exposed to the HIV virus.
Schedule HIV screening at Cermak Immediate Care by calling the office, requesting an appointment online, or simply walking in today.
We accept most major insurance plans. Self-pay pricing is also available — no hidden fees.
Walk in anytime or book online to save your spot. Two locations, open 7 days a week.
We treat non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries including flu, COVID-19, strep throat, ear infections, UTIs, sore throat, lacerations, sprains and strains, minor burns, work injuries, and rashes. We also offer primary care, STD testing, physicals, women's health, and management of chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Most patients are seen within 15–30 minutes of arrival, though wait times vary by location, time of day, and visit complexity. To minimize your wait, book your visit online in advance or call the location nearest you before walking in.
Cermak Immediate Care accepts most major insurance plans, including PPO, HMO, and Medicare. We also offer transparent self-pay pricing with no hidden fees for uninsured or out-of-network patients. Call either location to verify your specific plan, or view our insurance and self-pay pricing page.
Yes. Walk-ins are welcome at both Cermak Immediate Care locations — Cicero and Chicago, Illinois — seven days a week. The Cicero clinic is open 7 AM to 12 AM, and the Chicago clinic is open 8 AM to 9 PM. No appointment is required, though you can book online or call ahead to reduce your wait time.