Rising Tide of Congenital Syphilis in Australia: An Urgent Call to Action

Recent data reveals a concerning increase in infectious syphilis cases among Australian women of reproductive age, leading to more congenital syphilis cases. Timely testing and treatment during pregnancy can prevent this disease. Despite efforts, the rates continue to rise, with social determinants of health playing a significant role.

Sydney, Aug 1 (The Conversation) – Alarming new data indicates a sharp increase in infectious syphilis among women of reproductive age in Australia, sparking a subsequent rise in congenital syphilis. This situation is preventable through timely antenatal testing and treatment.

Untreated congenital syphilis can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, and lifelong disabilities. A recent review of cases from 2011 to 2021 found that 25% of affected babies were stillborn, with less than 40% of their mothers tested during pregnancy and nearly half receiving no antenatal care.

Despite heightened public health measures, syphilis rates have climbed more than 500% in a decade, extending across the country. Experts emphasize the urgency of consistent and widespread antenatal testing and addressing the social determinants of health to curb this rising trend.

(With inputs from agencies.)