Gov't to Pay $30K in Prizes for STD Video Game

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By USDR

Game on! You only have 11 more days to create your STD video game and send it to the government for a chance at $30,000 in cash prizes.

Through the challenge.gov website the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control are offering the cash prizes as an incentive for people to create an app game for phones that focuses on HIV and STD prevention.

Screenshot of “Game On!” challenge.gov

Now before you load your virtual condom gun and take aim at the sweet government cash that’s being offered, please keep in mind there are rules.

The “Game On!” challenge post says you must meet the objectives outlined below:

“Be entertaining, fun, engaging, and appropriate for adolescents (13 to 17 years) or young adults (18 to 24 years). Developers are encouraged to treat youth and young adults as distinct audience/player segments in the design of the game.

Deliver accurate health messages that emphasize the importance of one or more of the following five messages supporting HIV and STD prevention:

Get the Facts – Provide the facts on HIV and STDs, including how it is (and is not) spread. Share information on how to reduce the risk of HIV and STD transmission including the choice not to have sex.

Speak Up – Encourage youth to talk about HIV and STDs in their relationships, with health care providers, friends, and family. Talking openly and honestly about HIV and STDs will help reduce stigma.

Use Condoms – When used consistently and correctly, latex condoms are highly effective in preventing HIV and STDs.

Get Tested – Early diagnosis saves lives. Know where to get tested. Make HIV and STD testing a part of routine health care.

Get Treated – Many STDs are curable and all are treatable. There are effective medications available to help people with HIV live long and healthy lives.”

Follow the rules while you create the game and remember you must be at least 15 years old to enter for the chance to win some taxpayer funds.

Just don’t rip off “Adventures in Sex City”, the Canadian video game about sexual practices.

Yes. It really exists and you can help the “Sex Squad” fight a villain called “The Sperminator.”