A Worsening Epidemic: Unveiling the Alarming Surge of Syphilis Cases in the Houston Area

Syphilis Outbreak: Houston-Area Seeing Alarming Spike of Cases in Women

Published: July 16, 2023, 10:31 PM

By Gabby Hart

Health Reporter

According to a recent report by the Houston Health Department, Houston and Harris County are currently experiencing a concerning outbreak of syphilis, with a staggering 128% increase in cases among women. This surge in infections has prompted officials to sound the alarm and initiate urgent measures to address the growing epidemic. The numbers are alarming, with new infections rising from 1,845 in 2019 to 2,905 cases in 2022, representing a 57% increase. Dr. Foye Ikyaator, the Medical Director at Life Savers Emergency Room in Houston, emphasizes the importance of regular screening for everyone, as syphilis can be present without visible symptoms. “You can’t look at anybody and tell, you don’t know what every partner has been exposed to, or what you may have been exposed to,” she warns.

A Silent Resurgence

Once considered a nearly eradicated sexually transmitted infection (STI), syphilis is now making a concerning comeback in communities across the United States. The resurgence is particularly alarming given the progress that had been made in combating the disease. Dr. Ikyaator reflects on people’s astonishment when they learn of the ongoing transmission of syphilis: “We’ve gotten to the point where we think it’s eradicated. I talk to people all the time who say, ‘is that still going on?’ ‘Yeah, it is,'” she says.

Impact on Women and Children

Of particular concern is the impact of this outbreak on women of childbearing age and the subsequent rise in cases of congenital syphilis. The number of babies born with the infection increased from just 16 cases in 2016 to a staggering 151 cases in 2021. Dr. Ikyaator warns that this increase means that pregnant women with syphilis are giving birth to babies with neurological deficits. Recognizing the potential long-term consequences, she emphasizes the importance of regular screening for pregnant women in the beginning and middle of their pregnancy.

A Call for Action

Medical professionals are urging the public to be aware of the symptoms of syphilis, including a circular rash that can appear on various parts of the body. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to severe complications such as fever, hair loss, headaches, and damage to internal organs. However, syphilis is treatable with a single shot. Timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term health issues and potential loss of life. Dr. Ikyaator emphasizes the urgency of addressing syphilis, as it can cause severe neurological problems for both adults and babies.

Efforts to Combat the Outbreak

In response to the syphilis outbreak, the Houston Health Department plans to launch an aggressive outreach response to increase screening opportunities. Additionally, they are waiving all fees for STI & STD screenings at their health centers, making testing accessible and free for all community members. Taking advantage of these screening opportunities is crucial for early detection, treatment, and prevention of further transmission.

Editorial: A Wake-Up Call

This alarming spike in syphilis cases should serve as a wake-up call for communities to prioritize sexual health and comprehensive sex education. The spread of syphilis, once thought to be under control, underscores the importance of regular STI screenings and safe sexual practices. It is incumbent upon policy-makers, healthcare providers, and educators to work together to develop targeted interventions that address the underlying causes of this outbreak and ensure that resources are available for prevention, testing, and treatment.

Furthermore, this outbreak highlights the need for improved access to healthcare, particularly for marginalized communities that may face barriers to receiving screening and treatment. Socioeconomic factors, including poverty, lack of healthcare facilities, and inadequate sex education, often contribute to higher rates of STIs. Addressing these systemic issues can help mitigate the impact of future outbreaks and reduce health disparities.

Conclusion

The syphilis outbreak in Houston and Harris County is a concerning development that demands immediate attention from healthcare providers, policy-makers, and the public. The alarming increase in cases among women, especially pregnant women, underscores the urgency of comprehensive sexual healthcare and education. Public health officials must take swift action to combat this epidemic through increased screening, outreach efforts, and the removal of financial barriers to testing. By addressing the underlying factors contributing to the outbreak and improving access to healthcare, we can strive toward a future where sexually transmitted infections are effectively controlled and eliminated.