Syphilis cases are increasing in WA – get tested
Syphilis cases are increasing in WA – get tested
29 March 2022
With outbreaks of infectious syphilis in metropolitan, regional and remote parts of the State and notifications rising over the past 5 years, it’s a timely reminder to be aware of and talk about sexual health.
‘Healthysexual’ is WA Health’s sexual health campaign
‘Healthysexual’ is WA Health’s sexual health campaign to raise awareness about the things people can do to prevent, test, treat and talk to minimise the personal and social impact of sexually transmissible infections (STIs), including syphilis.
Syphilis notifications have more than doubled
Syphilis notifications more than doubled throughout the State between 2016 and 2020 which has placed many populations at risk. People are encouraged to get tested for syphilis regularly, as it is the best way to be sure you don’t have it.
Infectious syphilis is particularly dangerous during pregnancy. Pregnant women should get tested early and often during pregnancy to protect both themselves and their unborn babies.
STIs are common overseas
With borders now open, it is also a timely reminder that STIs such as syphilis, HIV and gonorrhoea are more common overseas. Travellers should always use a condom and when they return home ask their healthcare worker for an STI test.
Anyone can be a healthysexual
Being a healthysexual is something that we should all strive for, irrespective of our age, gender or sexual orientation.
Because when we look after ourselves, we look after all of us.
Find out more at healthysexual (external site).