Rapid Surge in Syphilis Cases Among Women and Newborns
Salt Lake County in Utah has seen an alarming 800% increase in syphilis cases among women from 2018 to 2022, with 89% of the cases involving women aged 15-44. The overall increase in syphilis cases in the county was 65%. The rise in cases is particularly concerning as it poses a risk of newborn syphilis, which can lead to stillbirth, miscarriage, or neonatal death. Lack of timely testing and treatment of pregnant women contributed to 88% of this year's cases nationally, with communities of color being disproportionately affected. Testing and treatment are crucial in managing syphilis, a treatable sexually transmitted infection.