Department Of Health Warn Syphilis Is On The Rise In Victoria, Increased Risk For Pregnant Women

Two babies have died from congenital syphilis – prompting warnings from the health department.

Notifications for infectious syphilis (defined as infection less than two years duration including primary, secondary and early latent presentations) reached a record high in 2018 – with1,372 cases in Victoria. 

But while the majority of cases occurred in men, officials say there’s also a significant warning to women.

The STI causes birth defects in unborn babies and has even caused two deaths of babies in Victoria for the last year.

If you haven’t been screened, experts are urging the public to speak to their doctor as treatment requires antibiotics.