"Rising Syphilis Cases in the US Prompt CDC Alarm and Federal Action"
The CDC has reported a staggering 80% increase in syphilis cases in the US since 2018, reaching the highest level in over 70 years. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra has declared the situation "unacceptable" and a "critical" public health crisis. The disease, known as "The Great Pretender," can lead to severe health issues if left untreated and is disproportionately affecting certain demographics. The surge in syphilis cases comes amid an "out of control" STD epidemic, with gonorrhea cases also spiking by 28% in 2021.
