Argentina: Spike in syphilis cases in multiple provinces

Event

Argentine health officials have reported an increase in syphilis cases in a number of provinces throughout the country. In Buenos Aires, the number of syphilis cases increased by 30 percent from 2015 to 2016, in Cordoba the increase was 19 percent for the same period, Santa Fe 15 percent, Mendoza 55 percent, Chubut 58 percent, and La Pampa 80 percent.

Decreases in the number of cases were reported in the provinces of Entre Rios and Missions.

Context

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that is spread by direct contact with syphilis sores during sex. The infection can also be spread from pregnant women to unborn babies. First stage symptoms are one or more round and painless sores that form where the infection entered the body and can last from three to six weeks. If untreated, further symptoms can include rashes that develop on the body, as well as fever, swollen lymph glands, sore throat, patchy hair loss, headaches, weight loss, muscle aches, and fatigue. Tertiary stage syphilis can result in serious complications of the heart, brain, and other organs.

Advice

Individuals are advised to practice safe sex and to seek medical attention if presenting with the above symptoms.