(WSIL) -- The Jackson County Health Department is seeing an alarming increase in syphilis cases, with more than a 75% increase in pre‐pandemic cases. A public health alert has been sent to local physicians and health clinics.
Many other counties throughout the State of Illinois are also seeing a rise in cases. There is a large correlation between HIV and syphilis cases.
In the last decade, there has been a marked resurgence of syphilis in the United States despite the availability of effective treatments and previously reliable prevention strategies. The majority of cases are among the population of men who have sex with men (MSM); however, there has also been a recent increase among premenopausal women, coinciding with a concerning rise of syphilis cases at birth (congenital cases).
Untreated syphilis is associated with detrimental health outcomes, including potentially
life‐altering health consequences such as hearing loss, blindness, neurological complications and the increased risk of contracting other sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV.
What actions can people take to reduce the risk of syphilis? Recommended actions include requesting comprehensive STD testing from their physician or clinic, reducing their number of sexual partners, and using protection, such as condoms.
Jackson County Health Department offers services to reduce people’s risk of syphilis and HIV. These services include no‐cost PrEP services, low‐cost sexual health clinic, and for those with HIV, assisting them in the navigation of HIV medication and other supportive services.
Call Jackson County Health Department at (618) 684�3143, ext. 155 for more information or an appointment.
