Syphilis outbreak in Houston, 128% increase in cases among women; All you need to know

The cases of syphilis among women in Houston, Texas, have seen a significant increase. From 2019 to 2022, there has been a 128% jump, with the number rising from 295 to 674 cases. This rise, along with other similar syphilis statistics, has led the Houston Health Department to declare an outbreak of this sexually transmitted infection (STI). Additionally, there has been a 57% increase in newly diagnosed infections during the same time period, going from 1,845 to 2,905 cases.

An outbreak refers to a sudden surge in the number of disease cases within a specific region. Various factors can contribute to outbreaks, such as the emergence of new diseases, environmental changes, or shifts in human behaviour.

What is Syphilis and how does it spread?

Syphilis is an STI caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. It can be transmitted through intimate contact, blood, or tissues. The infection progresses through four stages. In the primary stage, a painless sore called a chancre appears at the infection site. Secondary syphilis follows, with symptoms like rash, fever, and fatigue. Latent syphilis may have no symptoms but can persist for years. Tertiary syphilis, occurring years later, can lead to severe complications such as heart disease and brain damage. Timely treatment is crucial to prevent progression and potential long-term effects.

Syphilis can be transmitted through following ways:

Sexual contact: The most common way of contracting syphilis is through intercourse. The bacteria can enter the body through the vagina, anus, penis, or mouth.Blood contact: Syphilis can also be spread through contact with infected blood. This can occur when sharing needles or through blood transfusions.Mother-to-child transmission: During pregnancy or childbirth, a mother with syphilis can pass the infection to her baby. This can lead to severe health issues for the newborn, including stillbirth and death.It is to note that Syphilis cannot be transmitted through casual contact with objects like toilet seats, doorknobs, swimming pools, hot tubs, bathtubs, or by sharing clothing or eating utensils.

What are the symptoms of Syphilis?

Stages of Syphilis and their symptoms:

Primary Stage: The first stage of syphilis is characterized by the presence of a single or multiple painless sores in or around the genital area, anus, rectum, or mouth.

Secondary Stage: During the secondary stage, a rash may appear on the body, including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Other symptoms can include fever, swollen lymph glands, sore throat, hair loss, headaches, weight loss, muscle aches, and fatigue.

Latent Stage: The latent stage of syphilis has no visible signs or symptoms, but the infection remains in the body.

Tertiary Stage: Tertiary syphilis is a serious stage that can affect various organs, including the heart, blood vessels, brain, and nervous system. It can lead to severe complications and even death.

Neurosyphilis, Ocular Syphilis, and Otosyphilis: If left untreated, syphilis can spread to the brain and nervous system (neurosyphilis), the eyes (ocular syphilis), or the ears (otosyphilis). These complications can cause symptoms such as severe headaches, muscle weakness, changes in mental state, eye pain, vision changes, hearing loss, and dizziness.

How is Syphilis treated?

Benzathine penicillin G, given through a single injection, is an effective treatment for early stages of syphilis, such as primary, secondary, or early latent syphilis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a three-dose regimen of long-acting Benzathine penicillin G for late latent syphilis or syphilis of unknown duration. Treatment with penicillin will cure the infection and prevent further harm, although it cannot reverse any existing damage. It is important to choose the appropriate penicillin preparation, and the STI Treatment Guidelines provide additional information on syphilis treatment, including alternatives for individuals with a penicillin allergy.

How is Houston’s Health Department responding to Syphilis outbreak?

In order to address the outbreak, the Health Department is implementing a rapid outreach response, which involves expanding screening options, focusing on areas with high infection rates, and collaborating with community partners to prevent new infections. To support this effort, the HIV/STD mobile clinic will be utilized for increased screening and promoting awareness of the outbreak to encourage more testing and treatment. Additionally, the Health Department is waiving clinical fees for STIs at its health centres, ensuring accessibility to necessary care.

FAQs:

Q1:What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is an STI caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. It can be transmitted through intimate contact, blood, or tissues.

Q2:How to treat Syphilis?
Benzathine penicillin G, given through a single injection, is an effective treatment for early stages of syphilis, such as primary, secondary, or early latent syphilis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a three-dose regimen of long-acting Benzathine penicillin G for late latent syphilis or syphilis of unknown duration.