Syphilis rates are increasing across the U.S. and in most communities. To stress the importance of reversing this trend, the entire month of April will be dedicated to syphilis prevention.

1940 Style Public Service Announcement

April is STD Awareness Month. This year’s theme is Syphilis Strikes Back.  Syphilis rates are increasing across the U.S. and in most communities.  Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if it is not treated. Syphilis is divided into stages (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary) and there are different signs and symptoms associated with each stage.  To stress the importance of reversing this trend, the entire month of April will be dedicated to syphilis prevention.  Each week will address a different aspect of what’s happening with syphilis today.  For more information visit the STD Awareness website:  https://go.usa.gov/xXcKx

Syphilis prevention is important among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM).  MSM made up the majority of primary and secondary syphilis cases and data suggest that an average of half of MSM who have syphilis are infected with HIV.  While anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, MSM are greatly affected.  Learn how gay and bisexual men can protect themselves and their partners:  https://go.usa.gov/xXcK4

Syphilis prevention is also important among women & newborns.  Syphilis has increased among women in recent years.  Disturbingly, it has also increased among pregnant women and newborns.  Congenital syphilis is a disease that can occur when a mother with syphilis passes the infection on to her baby during pregnancy.  Congenital syphilis cause major health problems for babies.  All pregnant women should be tested for syphilis at their first prenatal visit!  Here’s how women can protect themselves and their babies, if they’re pregnant, from infection:  https://go.usa.gov/xXcKj

This STD Awareness Month focuses on the return of syphilis, but there is good news!  We can disrupt syphilis by getting back to the basics of prevention.  Take charge of your health!  Talk to your healthcare provider about what STD testing is right for you, including syphilis.  That's a great start to protecting you & your partner.

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