Syphilis

What is syphilis and how is it spread?
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is spread through semen and blood of an infected person. It can also be passed from mother to child during birth.

How can I prevent it?
Practice safe sex. Always use a barrier method, like condoms and dental dams. It is important to use these methods during vaginal, oral and anal sex to be protected.

How can I get tested for it?
Syphilis can be detected with a simple blood test.

What are the symptoms?
There are three stages of syphilis:

• Primary Stage: Painless chancre or sores that can be internal or external. These sores may disappear, but unless treated the infection is still present.
• Secondary Stage: Rash, headache, sore throat, weight loss, joint pain, fatigue, swollen glands.
• Late Stage: Damage to the internal organs and central nervous system.

What is the treatment?
Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by your provider.

What could happen if it is left untreated?
If a syphilis infection is not treated, it may lead to brain damage, paralysis, blindness, heart disease, liver complications or death.

How common is it?
In the United States, health officials reported over 36,000 cases of syphilis in 2006, including 9,756 cases of primary and secondary syphilis.

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