A resurgence of congenital syphilis is alarming public health officials in New York, with cases increasing significantly nationwide. The infection is preventable and treatable, but gaps in testing and treatment contribute to the problem. Funding cuts and structural issues, like racism and lack of access to care, are also factors. Recommendations include increasing screening and treatment, especially for pregnant individuals, and addressing gaps in prenatal care. By improving testing, treatment, and partner notification, officials hope to reduce and eliminate congenital syphilis cases.
Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection that was once close to eradication, is making a comeback in New York, prompting urgent calls for increased testing and treatment. Public health officials are particularly alarmed by the resurgence of congenital syphilis, a condition that can have devastating consequences for babies born to infected mothers.
The number of congenital syphilis cases has been on the rise nationwide, with a significant increase from 334 cases in 2012 to 3,761 cases in 2022. These cases can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, prematurity, and even infant death, as well as a range of serious health issues for affected babies.
While New York has relatively low rates of congenital syphilis compared to other states, the recent increase in cases has raised concerns among health experts. In 2023, the state is expected to see a 204% increase in congenital syphilis cases compared to a decade ago.
The rise in syphilis cases is not limited to New York, as the total number of syphilis cases nationwide has surged to over 200,000 in recent years. Primary and secondary syphilis cases have also increased, with women being disproportionately affected.
The key to addressing this public health challenge lies in closing gaps in testing and treatment. Lack of timely testing and adequate treatment has contributed to almost 90% of congenital syphilis cases across the country. Health officials emphasize the importance of ensuring that pregnant individuals are tested for syphilis at key intervals and have access to prenatal care.
In New York, a new state requirement mandates syphilis testing during the third trimester of pregnancy, in addition to screening at the first prenatal exam and delivery. State and city officials have also ramped up warnings to health providers and are working on releasing recommendations to reduce and eliminate congenital syphilis.
Efforts to disrupt transmission networks and increase partner notification and testing are crucial in preventing the spread of syphilis. Contact tracers and case investigators play a vital role in following up with individuals diagnosed with STIs, while Disease Intervention Specialists work to find and treat those in need of STI care.
Despite the challenges posed by the resurgence of syphilis, health officials remain hopeful that with collective action, including increased testing, treatment, and partner notification, the number of syphilis cases, including congenital cases, can be reduced once again. By acting now and working together, it is possible to bring these numbers down and keep them down in the future.
Source: TheCity.NYC
