Syphilis
Syphilis is a very serious disease that if not treated it can stay in the body for many years and cause serious problems with your brain and other organs.
Syphilis cases are rising across Australia and in Western Australia.
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Signs and symptoms
- The first sign of syphilis is a painless sore that appears on the genitals, anus or mouth about three to 12 weeks after infection. The sore can be any size or shape. It goes away in a week or two, but the bacteria are still in the body.
- About six to 12 months after infection, a rash appears on the palms of the hands and feet, the face and other parts of the body. Sometimes hair falls out from the eyebrows and head.
- About two years after infection, there can be damage to the nervous system, the brain and blood system.
Risk factors
Unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone with syphilis.
It can also be passed on by skin-to-skin contact.
A pregnant person with syphilis can pass it to their unborn baby.
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Treatment
Syphilis can be treated with prescription antibiotics and cured if treated in the early stages. People who are diagnosed with syphilis will be asked about other people they may have had unprotected sex with because they could also have syphilis. This is called contact tracing.
Prevention
- Always use condoms or dams and water-based lubricant.
- Before you have sex, talk with your partner about the importance of safe sex and sexual health.
- Have regular STI tests.
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