Surge in Syphilis Cases: Alarming 800% Increase in Salt Lake County

Rates of syphilis in Salt Lake County, Utah have surged by 800% in just four years, with the sexually transmitted disease particularly affecting women of childbearing age. This increase raises the risk of congenital syphilis in newborns, which has seen a nearly 10-fold spike in states like Mississippi. The surge in syphilis cases is consistent with national data, and it is believed to be due to a lack of access to contraceptives, such as condoms, which are discouraged in the largely religious population of the state. Experts expect the number of syphilis cases to continue rising, and it is crucial to raise awareness and promote safe sexual practices to prevent further spread of the disease.