Health Officials Warn Of Syphilis Outbreak In Escambia County

October 4, 2011

There is an outbreak of syphilis cases in Escambia County, according to the Escambia County Health Department.

So far this year, 69 cases of syphilis have been reported — a number equivalent to last year’s total. Before this outbreak began, the county averaged 25 cases a year. Local health officials are consulting with Florida regional and state health officials to combat the increase of syphilis infections.

Syphilis is spread by intimate contact with an infected partner. Left untreated, it can lead to severe disease and even death. Studies indicate a two to five times increased risk for transmission of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, in the presence of syphilis. Syphilis may also be transmitted from an infected pregnant woman to her baby. These infants are at risk of lifelong disabilities and death.

The Escambia County Health Department is encouraging inviduals to be aware of the signs and symptoms of syphilis. In the initial stage, a sore might be visible in the genital area or the mouth (usually painless). In the second stage, a rash on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet, moist lesions in the mouth, and/or unexplained hair loss may develop. When sores and lesions are present, they are extremely infectious, and intimate contact with them should be avoided. Early syphilis can include periods of “latency” with no outward signs or symptoms. Individuals experiencing these symptoms, or who have experienced them in the past should see their physician or local clinic for testing and treatment.

The best way to prevent syphilis is not to have sex with an infected partner. The health department said it is important to know your partner’s syphilis status. Proper use of a latex condom can help protect against acquired HIV, syphilis and a number of other sexually transmitted diseases.

Syphilis can be detected through a simple blood test at a physician’s office or clinic. Several local clinics provide free or low cost screening, diagnosis and treatment services. The Escambia County Health Department also provides these services.

For more information on local low cost clinics or for the Escambia County Health Department’s STD clinic hours and fees, visit www.escambiahealth.com or call (850) 595-6532.

Comments

5 Responses to “Health Officials Warn Of Syphilis Outbreak In Escambia County”

  1. cruze60 on October 6th, 2011 6:36 am

    The county warns there is an outbreak? What have we come to when officials have to warn the public over something of this nature? Are officials naive enough to really think this’ll scare the pants back on the crowd that is apt to contract such. Like a heavy fog advisory or such. Warning: STD”s coming down the street, quick ,get inside!

  2. David Huie Green on October 4th, 2011 10:40 am

    REGARDING:
    ” At least that’d give us some idea if it is a North Escambia problem ”

    when in doubt, keep it out

    David for health

  3. AL on October 4th, 2011 10:23 am

    I don’t suppose it matters what zip code…. keep your goods where they belong (in the marriage bed) and you don’t have to worry about it (and if you contract it from the marriage bed there are more issues than a news article can help)

  4. Oversight on October 4th, 2011 6:08 am

    How many are from the 32535 (Century), 32568 (McDavid/Walnut Hill) and 32577 (Molino) zip codes? At least that’d give us some idea if it is a North Escambia problem or just the armpit area of Pensacola.

  5. 429SCJ on October 4th, 2011 4:00 am

    I think a lot of people around Escambia County, worry more about their lottery strategy, than they do contracting and preventing, life threatening STDs.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News