In recent weeks the Chief Public Health Office has seen an increase in cases of infectious syphilis throughout Prince Edward Island, says Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Heather Morrison.
Syphilis is primarily a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacteria. Symptoms of infection may include a painless ulcer or chancre, rash, fever, swollen or enlarged lymph nodes, hair loss, headaches, inflammation of the eye, generally feeling unwell, and infection in the brain. If left untreated, syphilis can cause heart and brain complications including dementia.
Dr. Morrison recommends that anyone who may be at risk and is exhibiting symptoms to abstain from unprotected sex and seek medical care. Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics, and follow-up testing is very important to ensure that treatment has been successful.
In order to protect yourself from syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), safer sex practices must be used. These include: barrier precautions such as condoms for all sexual activities including oral sex, testing for STIs before engaging with a new partner, and knowing the signs and symptoms of STIs. It is important to remember that many sexually transmitted infections don’t have symptoms and testing is the only way to know for sure if someone is infected.
Anyone with concerns is encouraged to talk with your healthcare provider.