Syphilis infections in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions have more than doubled this year with more than fifty cases diagnosed in 2023 to date, a concerning rise from the five-year average of 20 cases up to 2022.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Chief Medical Officer Dr Charles Pain said it was necessary to formally declare an outbreak, as infection has spread among the general population in the region, with risk to the particularly vulnerable.
“Most people with syphilis, which is an infection of intimacy, have no symptoms or mild ones which can often go unnoticed and is thus easily spread to intimate partner,” Dr Pain said.
Syphilis is easily spread through vaginal, anal and oral sex or skin to skin contact.
Mackay Base Hospital is now increasing screening of pregnant women at antenatal appointments and encouraging their partners to also be tested.
People aged 15 to 40 who present to the Mackay Base Hospital emergency department may also be tested for syphilis if they are having blood taken.
People can choose not to be tested, however doctors are strongly encouraging people to be tested as syphilis is easily treated.
Sexual Health Physician Dr Arun Menon said pregnant women and their unborn babies were at the highest risk of syphilis infection as it can be passed from mother to baby. “This is called congenital syphilis which can be a severe, disabling, or life-threatening infection for babies.
“The earlier syphilis is detected and treated during the pregnancy, the lower the risk of the baby becoming infected and unwell from syphilis.
“This is why all pregnant women should have a syphilis test in the first 10 weeks of pregnancy (or at the first antenatal visit) and for people who may be at high-risk additional testing is recommended throughout the pregnancy,” he said.
“The cases of infection are in the whole population, including pregnant women. Sexually active people should have themselves tested regularly to protect themselves and their partners.
“Syphilis in Mackay is increasing, and everyone who is sexually active is at risk and should get tested, particularly pregnant women.
“If you have symptoms, particularly ulcers or rashes go to your GP and ask to be tested.” Dr Donohue said.
Dr Donohue encourages regular sexual health check-ups, particularly urging people to ask for a test for syphilis and other STI’s.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
