Syphilis Cases in Houston on the Rise
The Houston Health Department is warning residents about a recent increase in syphilis cases. In 2022, there were 2,905 new cases of syphilis reported in Houston, a 57% increase from 2019. The increase is particularly concerning among women, with a 128% increase in cases from 2019 to 2022.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. If left untreated, syphilis can cause serious health problems, including death.
There are a number of factors that may be contributing to the increase in syphilis cases in Houston. These include:
- A decline in condom use
- An increase in the number of people with HIV
- A lack of awareness about syphilis
The Houston Health Department is urging residents to get tested for syphilis if they have any concerns. They are also offering free syphilis testing and treatment at several locations throughout the city.
If you are concerned about your risk of syphilis, you can talk to your doctor or visit the Houston Health Department website for more information.
Symptoms of Syphilis
The symptoms of syphilis vary depending on the stage of the infection. In the early stages, syphilis may cause no symptoms at all. However, as the infection progresses, symptoms may include:
- A painless sore, called a chancre, that appears at the site of infection
- Rash
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Fatigue
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. Syphilis can be easily treated with antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can cause serious health problems.
How to Prevent Syphilis
The best way to prevent syphilis is to use condoms every time you have sex. You can also reduce your risk of infection by getting tested for syphilis regularly. If you are diagnosed with syphilis, it is important to complete the full course of treatment to prevent the infection from spreading.
If You Think You Have Syphilis
If you think you may have syphilis, it is important to see a doctor right away. Syphilis can be easily treated with antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can cause serious health problems.
The Houston Health Department is offering free syphilis testing and treatment at several locations throughout the city. You can find a list of testing locations on the Houston Health Department website.