HAWAII HEALTH OFFICIALS SOUND ALARM OVER RISING CASES OF SYPHILIS IN WOMEN AND NEWBORNS
Hawaii health officials, led by physician Gov. Josh Green, have expressed grave concern over the increasing rate of syphilis cases among women and newborns. In a statement released by the Department of Health, the ongoing rise in cases has been deemed “alarming and requires immediate attention.”
Historically, the number of babies born with congenital syphilis in Hawaii has been relatively low, ranging from zero to four cases between 2000 and 2019. However, the year 2021 saw a significant spike, with 20 reported cases. Preliminary data suggests that at least 22 cases were recorded last year, indicating a dramatic rise in infections among adults.
Dr. Diana Felton, chief of the Department of Health Communicable Disease and Public Health Nursing Division, emphasized the importance of regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in sexually active individuals. She stated, “All sexually active people with risk factors for STIs should be regularly tested for syphilis and other STIs.”
For pregnant individuals, the department now recommends syphilis screening three times during pregnancy: as early as possible in the first trimester, at 28 to 32 weeks of gestation, and again at the time of delivery. It is crucial that sexual partners of those affected receive treatment to prevent reinfection.
The majority of cases involving congenital syphilis in Hawaii have been reported in individuals who received late or no prenatal care. As a result, the Department of Health is urging enhanced screening in healthcare interactions other than prenatal care to tackle the issue.
Dr. Felton highlighted the severe health impacts syphilis can have, especially on developing babies, including an increased risk of stillbirth or death shortly after birth. However, if infections are detected early, and treatment is initiated promptly, the devastating effects of untreated syphilis can be prevented.
The department is stressing the importance of visits to emergency rooms, urgent care, and primary care clinics as opportunities for both identifying and treating syphilis, as well as preventing cases of congenital syphilis from recurring.
Additionally, the department strongly recommends that women begin receiving prenatal care as soon as they learn of their pregnancy, ideally in the first trimester. Health care providers are also being urged to remain vigilant in screening for cases of syphilis in individuals who may become pregnant and during pregnancy.
The rising cases of syphilis in women and newborns in Hawaii serve as an urgent call to action for expanded screening and treatment efforts. By addressing the issue head-on, health officials hope to curb the spread of syphilis and protect the well-being of mothers and their infants.
Source: [Fox News](link)