How Testing Positive for Gonorrhea Affects the Immigration Medical Exam

Urine screening for gonorrhea infection, a common sexually transmitted infection (STI), is required for all applicants aged 18 and 24. Individuals with untreated gonorrhea will be considered to have a Class A, medically disqualifying condition. Once treated, the treated condition is reclassified as Class B, non-disqualifying.

Gonorrhea Screening

Gonorrhea is caused by a sexually transmitted bacterium affecting both males and females. It is a common infectious disease in the USA and worldwide. It affects the urethra, rectum, and throat most commonly but can affect other parts of the body as well. Gonorrhea can cause serious genital tract concerns. If left untreated, it can lead to severe health complications.

Gonorrhea Symptoms

Symptoms may vary in males and females and are most prominent in males. It is not uncommon for females to have no symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of gonorrhea in men

• Painful urination
• Urethral discharge
• Pain or swelling in one of the testicles

Signs and symptoms of gonorrhea in women

• Increased vaginal discharge
• Pain while urinating
• Vaginal spotting
• Pelvic pain
• Pain with intercourse

Gonorrhea in other parts of the body shows diverse symptoms.

• Rectum - anal itching, pus-like discharge, spotting, pain during bowel movement
• Eyes - Eye pain, sensitivity to light, pus-like discharge from eyes
• Throat - sore throats and swollen lymph nodes
• Joint - Warm, red, or swollen joints

Laboratory Testing

Gonorrhea Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) is used to detect the genetic material of the gonorrhea bacteria and is ideal for diagnosing gonorrhea. A urine sample is used for NAAT.

Medical History

If an applicant tests positive, a detailed sexual history is taken, including a thorough investigation of persistent symptoms, especially the genital and urinary tract, and a thorough past sexual history.

Physical Examination

Applicants between 18 to 24 years of age who test positive for gonorrhea infection must be thoroughly examined for signs of gonorrhea. This includes a thorough examination of the genital and anal areas in males and females.

Gonorrhea Treatment

Gonorrhea must be treated with antibiotics as per CDC’s STI treatment guidelines. The Civil Surgeon must perform the treatment--it cannot be delegated to the health department or an applicant’s personal physician. The diagnosis and treatment must be reported on Form I-693.

If you want to know more about Gonorrhea, its test, treatment, and effects in immigration medical examination, contact us today. Dr. Gordon has dedicated 80% of his private practice to immigration medical exams and can help you with the process. Call 913-787-5805 to schedule an appointment.

Also Read: How a History of DUI or Alcohol Abuse Affect the Immigration Medical Exam