By Wade Stephens
SYPHILIS infections are rising across the Far West Local Health District, prompting a plea from health professionals to prioritise sexual health.
FWLHD director of public health Priscilla Stanley said there had been twenty reported cases of syphilis in the district to date in 2024, eight more than for the whole of last year.
Seven of the cases were classed as infectious at the time of diagnosis.
“It’s important to always be mindful that many people don’t get symptoms of STIs, so regular sexual health tests are key to preventing transmission,” Ms Stanley said.
“We strongly encourage anyone experiencing symptoms such as sores, ulcers, or a rash in the genital, anal, or oral areas after sexual activity to visit their local clinic or Emergency Department for prompt evaluation and care.
“Sexually active individuals are encouraged to talk with their GP, nurse or healthcare provider at Maari Ma or Clinic 9 if they have concerns about their sexual health.”
The increase in local cases is a trend reflected across the state.
Last year there were 2034 notifications of infectious syphilis in NSW, the highest number reported in the past decade.
According to Federal Department of Health figures, between April and June 2024, the greatest proportion (69 per cent) of overall cases were reported in non-Indigenous men, who largely resided in major cities.
However, notification rates were highest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in remote and very remote areas, reflecting sustained transmission associated with outbreaks in Queensland, the Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia.
Ms Stanley said in 2024, infectious syphilis notifications in Far West NSW continued to rise above expected levels.
Groups at higher risk of contracting syphilis include males who have sex with males, female sexual partners of men who have sex with men, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people, and babies of mothers who have not had syphilis testing and treatment during pregnancy.
The infection can be passed on to an unborn child, and also increased the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth or death of the newborn.
Ms Stanley said all pregnant women in NSW must be offered syphilis screening as part of their first antenatal visit and a second syphilis screening at 26-28 weeks gestation.
“Early testing, diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics will prevent serious long-term harm,” she said.
“Once syphilis is detected it can be easily treated with antibiotics
“Individuals can greatly reduce their risk of contracting and spreading syphilis and other STIs by consistently using condoms, which are highly effective in prevention.”
More information about syphilis can be found on the NSW Health website.
People can also access free and confidential sexual health support by visiting The Sexual Health Infolink website or calling the Infolink on 1800 451 624 between 9am and 5.30pm weekdays.
