MERCED COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) - Letters being sent to Merced County residents telling them they have HIV, syphilis and chlamydia are not genuine, according to the Merced County Department of Public Health. The letters appear to be from the Merced County Department of Public Health and detail recent test results, informing the recipient that they have "tested positive for HIV, syphilis and chlamydia." The letter goes on to tell the recipient that they have not yet responded to the department's guidance on treatment options and encourages the recipient to seek immediate medical treatment. Image provided by Merced County. The phone number provided in the letter does match the phone number for the Merced County Department of Public Health, but Merced County officials say the rest of the letter is counterfeit. County officials reveal that the purpose and origin of the phony letters are unknown, but assure those receiving them that they are not being issued by Merced County as confidential medical information is never disclosed in letters that are mailed out.