Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) have surged for a fifth consecutive year, reaching an all-time high nationwide. What is most concerning is the rise in syphilis, which has led to multiple stillbirths and many more babies spending their first 10 days of their life hospitalized for syphilis treatment. Last year, Arizona reported 61 cases of syphilis in babies. Sadly, these cases resulted in 10 deaths. Any bacterial STDs, like syphilis, are curable through appropriate and timely treatment. Addressing the rising rates of syphilis in adults is critical to preventing syphilis and other STDs in babies.
You can protect yourself and your partner’s health:
- Increase the number of times you use condoms during any kind of sex or other type of intimate contact
- Get tested and treated for STDs regularly
- Reduce your number of sex partners
If you or a partner is pregnant or could become pregnant, STD screening and prevention is critical as these diseases can cause problems during pregnancy and compromise your baby’s health. Find a clinic or check out our website for more information and statewide surveillance data.
