A syphilis outbreak in Texas was lately reported by the Houston Health Department (HHD). This outbreak has led to a significant increase in cases, including a 128% rise among women and a nine-fold increase in congenital syphilis.
The peak in these cases resulted in at least 220 infant death and stillbirths. And if the child survives, there can be extreme health outcomes.
Houston Health Department Action
In response to this outbreak, the Houston Health Department is taking action. They have waived all clinical fees for sexually transmitted infections at their health centers.
They will be expanding the use of their HIV/STD mobile clinic to increase community screening sites. The HHD will start a rapid outreach response with increasing screening opportunities targeting hotspots to curb new infections.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also affected the rising number of syphilis cases. The stress on healthcare systems has made it more difficult to provide education, testing, tracing, and notification services for STIs such as syphilis.
The focus on COVID-19 testing, treatment, and containment has diverted resources and funding away from reproductive screenings and care.
How Syphilis Spreads
Syphilis infection can spread through direct contact with a canker sore. The screening tests involve RPR (rapid plasma reagin) or a VDRL (venereal disease research laboratory) test.
The disease progress in stages. Painless sores on the mouth, genitals, or rectum characterize the first stage. But, treatment for syphilis is available using antibiotics.
However, the infection will progress into the secondary stage without adequate treatment. The palms and sole areas break into a non-itchy rash in this stage.
Then again, when syphilis is caught early, it is easily treatable with antibiotics, usually penicillin. If syphilis has been present for a more extended period or has progressed to a later stage, three injections of antibiotics at weekly intervals may be required.
The Houston Health Department recently reported a 128 percent increase in syphilis cases among women.https://t.co/4kq0hM0g4e
— Health (@health_com_) July 24, 2023
Treatment Available
Syphilis infection can remain dormant in the body for years or even decades without treatment. It can then attack the brain, nerves, eyes, and other organs, potentially leading to severe complications such as deafness, blindness, or death.
It is essential to seek treatment for STIs. Still, there is often a stigma around seeking treatment and a lack of access, particularly for younger individuals or those without health insurance.
Without treatment, the Treponema Pallidum bacterium will stay in the body. It will ultimately damage the nerves, brain, heart, eyes, liver, blood vessels, joints, and bones.
Syphilis infections are asymptomatic or unrecognized. Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures to ensure safety. This measure includes practicing safe sex, limiting sexual partners, and regularly getting tested for STIs.
On top of the rise in cases, congenital syphilis is increasing. Pregnant women with the disease pass it to their unborn babies.
It is important to note that testing is vital for pregnant women during their first prenatal exam and at 28 weeks. If the mother lives in a high-rate syphilis area, she must undergo repeat screening at delivery.
Increasing Congenital Syphilis
Treatment for congenital syphilis typically involves antibiotics, and if the mother tests positive, she may receive a shot of penicillin up to a month before delivery. Infants with syphilis must have a regimen of Penicillin G, along with additional treatment and testing, depending on the symptoms.
Individuals who suspect exposure to syphilis or notice sores on the mouth or genital area seek medical attention and testing immediately. Pregnant women must consult a healthcare provider regarding prenatal testing to determine the fetus’s exposure to syphilis.
In that case, the mother may need to be retested at the start of the third trimester and delivery, depending on the prevalence of syphilis infections in their area. Pregnant women with a sexual partner who has or may have syphilis must receive treatment to protect their babies.
Written by Janet Grace Ortigas
Sources:
Fox26: Houston, Harris County experiencing syphilis outbreak, 128% increase in women, says HHD; by FOX 26 Digital
Fox 26: Houston: Texas leads the nation for babies born with syphilis, CDC says; by Gabby Hart
The Chronicle: CDC warns of rising syphilis cases
Houston Public Media: Houston Health Department launches a rapid outreach response for a syphilis outbreak; by Patricia Ortiz
Health: What the Syphilis Outbreak in Houston Says About the Spread of STIs; by Lauryn Higgins
Featured and Top Image by Julio César Velásquez Mejía Courtesy of Pixabay – Creative Commons License
First Inset Image by Julio César Velásquez Mejía Courtesy of Pixabay – Creative Commons License
Second Inset Image by Nicu Buculei Courtesy of Flickr – Creative Commons License
