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Los Angeles County starts online STD e-mail alert

E-Health Trend Watch, March 3, 2006

Los Angeles County health officials have announced a controversial tool to fight the spread of HIV and other diseases. The county launched a Web site to help send anonymous e-mails warning people that they might be infected with a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Through the site, inSPOTLA.org, users can send a free, unsigned electronic postcard with a standard message or personal note. The hope is to help people be more forthcoming with sexual partners so those at risk of STD get tested and practice safer sex. Critics of the site say the e-cards are an insensitive way to inform people of unpleasant news and also worry that the tool could be abused by pranksters.

The site is aimed at people who seek casual sex online. Seattle, Philadelphia, and Indiana are also planning to launch inSPOT sites next year.

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