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THE number of cases of syphilis reported in the Kerry – Cork region has increased threefold in the past twelve months according to the HSE.
In the first half of last year, seven cases of syphilis were reported in the Kerry – Cork region, but in the next six months there were 21 cases reported. In the first six months of this year, 23 cases have been reported.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a specific type of bacteria which if not treated promptly and with the correct antibiotics can cause serious long-term problems. It is passed from person to person during unprotected anal, oral or vaginal sex, or by sharing sex toys with someone who’s infected.
Statistics from the HSE show 80% of cases reported to them are between men who have sex with other men, but women who have sex with men who engage in gay sex can also contract the disease. Those at risk are advised to take a STI test and to use condoms.
Prof Mary Horgan, consultant in infectious diseases at Cork University Hospital and clinical lead for STI services in Cork and Kerry, said: “I have seen a significant increase in syphilis among men who have sex with men. I would encourage (gay men) who have had unprotected sex, including unprotected oral sex, to book an STI test as soon as possible.
“While 90% of the cases we are seeing are primary syphilis, up to half of people with syphilis may not have any symptoms, and therefore could pass it on unintentionally. Syphilis is curable with treatment. Unrecognised, untreated syphilis can lead to serious long-term complications.”
