Improved testing has led to the detection of over 6,000 cases of syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease primarily linked to unsafe sex, according to data from the Mumbai AIDS Control Society (MDACS) between 2018-19 and 2022-23.
About Syphilis:
It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause serious health problems if you do not treat it.
It is caused by the bacteria, Treponema pallidum.
After the infection happens, syphilis bacteria can stayin the body for many yearswithout causing symptoms. But the infection can become active again.
Transmission:
People usually get syphilis from sexual contact with someone who has it.
It can also pass from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and sometimes through breastfeeding.
Symptoms:
Syphilis develops in stages. The symptoms vary with each stage and is oftenpainless.
The disease starts as a sore that's often painless and typically appears on the genitals, rectum, or mouth.
Sometimes it causes swelling in nearby lymph nodes.
If you do not treat it, syphilis usually causes a non-itchy skin rash, often on your hands and feet.
Many people do not notice symptoms for years. Symptoms can go away and come back.
If left untreated, it can cause serious health issues. It can permanently damage your heart, brain, muscles, bones, and eyes.
Treatment:
Syphilis is treatable and curable. It is easy to cure with antibiotics, especially during in the early stages.
Penicillin is the most commonly used medication for syphilis.
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