After years of decline, syphilis surges in Oregon

A sexually transmitted infection that was nearly a disease of the past is now an epidemic in Oregon.

According to Oregon Public Health Division, the rate of syphilis incidents has grown 1500% statewide. NewsChannel 21 spoke with local health professionals to see how the sexually transmitted infection is affecting Central Oregon.

Deschutes County Health Department Nurse Holly Nyquist explained Tuesday how in the past they didn’t worry much about syphilis, but now things have changed.

She said she had noticed an increase of syphilis cases in Central Oregon, which could be attributed to the decline of condom use and increase of dating app use.

“They show up, they meet, then they have sex,” Nyquist said. “Then they leave and they don’t know anything about their partners.”

Health officials say men who have sex with other men, illicit drug users and people with HIV or an STI (sexually transmitted infection) are at the highest risk of contracting syphilis. This group of individuals should be tested for syphilis every three months.

Individuals who aren’t in this group of people, but have multiple sexual partners, should be tested annually, they said, adding that it is important that pregnant woman also be tested.

“Mothers who get this can pass it onto their babies, so it’s so so important to know your status,” said Planned Parenthood’s Tricia Wilder.

Unfortunately, syphilis is known to be very hard to detect.

“It’s often a painless sore that might be in your mouth, genitals or rectum. So you might not know you have it.” Nyquist said.

Another syphilis sign is a rash on your body, hands or feet. Signs beyond this can be much more serious.

“We’ve actually had an increase in ocular syphilis, or eye disease, where people can actually have blindness caused by syphilis.,” Nyquist explained.

The good thing is that syphilis is treatable, which is why it is so crucial to get tested. Planned Parenthood offers STI testing for $55. You can also get tested through the Deschutes County Health Department. You can reach them at 541-322-7499 . Another option is to contact your local provider.

For more information, visit: http://public.health.oregon.gov/DiseasesConditions/HIVSTDViralHepatitis/SexuallyTransmittedDisease/Pages/fssyph.aspx