Syphilis

Syphilis can have very serious consequences when left untreated.

Syphilis can have very serious complications when left untreated.

hand and tablet computer

You should get tested regularly if you are pregnant, are a man who has sex with men, have HIV infection, and/or have partner(s) who have tested positive for syphilis.

two men holding hands

80% of reported male primary and secondary (P&S) syphilis cases where sex of sex partner is known are among men who have sex with men (MSM).

pregnant woman and her husband talking to doctor

Syphilis is easy to cure in its early stages. Pregnant women should be tested regularly for syphilis because infection with syphilis can cause serious problems in a baby.

Highlights

Syphilis Pocket Guide for Providerspdf icon – Updated booklet for providers containing need-to-know details on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of syphilis. (November 30, 2017)

Syphilis Increase in USA

Increased Methamphetamine, Injection Drug, and Heroin Use among Women and Heterosexual Men with Primary and Secondary Syphilis – United States, 2013-2017 MMWR February 14, 2019

Syphilis Risk Supplement: Report with data on all reported risk behaviors and characteristics for primary and secondary (P&S) syphilis cases for 2013-2017 (February 14, 2019)

A Devastating Surge in Congenital Syphilis: How Can We Stop It?external icon In this Medscape expert commentary, CDC’s Dr. Laura H. Bachmann, MD, MPH speaks to rising congenital syphilis rates and what healthcare providers can do to help (January 23, 2019)

The State of STDs in the United States: This *customizable* infographic highlights statistics for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, as well as the populations most affected by these STDs, consequences when left untreated, and ways to prevent them. (September 25, 2018)

The Rising Tide of Syphilis: Coming to a Patient Near Youexternal icon – Medscape commentary from Dr. Gail Bolan, Division of STD Prevention Director, addresses the nationwide syphilis increases and the specific actions clinicians can take to make a difference. (July 17, 2017)

Reducing Rising Syphilis Rates: A Healthcare Provider’s Role – Video walks healthcare providers through the three key actions that they can take to help reverse the rising syphilis rates: Talk, Test, and Treat. (July 11, 2017)

Let’s Work Together to Stem the Tide of Rising Syphilis in the United States:pdf icon CDC issues a call to action for communities impacted by the STD and other groups who have the power to reduce the burden of infection through research, treatment, and outreach. The document also lists how CDC will contribute to reducing syphilis burden. (April 25, 2017)