Syphillis

What is syphilis?

Syphilis is a serious infection that affects many people in Africa, but not enough people talk about it. It is caused by a tiny germ called Treponema pallidum, and it spreads mainly through unprotected sex.

Many Africans may not know they have syphilis because it can stay in the body for years without showing any signs. But if left untreated, it can cause blindness, heart disease, brain damage, and even death.

According to the world health organization (WHO), about 11 million new syphilis infections occur worldwide every year, and Africa has a high burden of the disease. In some African countries, up to 3% of pregnant women test positive for syphilis, which can lead to stillbirths or babies born with severe health problems.

This article will break down syphilis in simple terms so that you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

How do people get syphilis?

You can get syphilis if you have unprotected sex (without a condom) with someone who is infected. The infection spreads through direct contact with syphilis sores, which can be found on the genitals, mouth, or anus. Here’s how people commonly contract syphilis:

• Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person.
• Direct skin-to-skin contact with syphilis sores.
• From mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth (this is called congenital syphilis).

You cannot get syphilis from:

• Sharing toilets or bathrooms.
• Wearing someone else’s clothes.
• Using another person’s eating utensils or cups.

Some people are at a higher risk of getting syphilis, including:

• People who have multiple sexual partners.
• People who don’t use condoms.
• Men who have sex with men.
• People who have HIV/AIDS.
• People whose partners have syphilis.

How common is syphilis in Africa?

Syphilis remains a major health issue in Africa. Studies show that:

• One in ten sex workers in some African cities has syphilis.
• Syphilis is one of the leading causes of stillbirths and birth defects.
• Some countries report that up to 5% of adults have had syphilis at some point in their lives.

Many people in Africa do not go for regular health check-ups, so they may have syphilis without knowing. Getting tested early can save your life.

What are the stages of syphilis?

Syphilis happens in four stages, and each stage has different symptoms:

Primary stage:

• Starts 3 to 4 weeks after infection.
• A small, painless sore (called a chancre) appears where the bacteria entered the body (mouth, genitals, or anus).
• The sore goes away on its own, but the infection is still in the body.

Secondary stage:

• Skin rashes (often on the palms and soles of the feet).
• Fever, sore throat, headache, and swollen glands.
• White patches in the mouth.
• Hair loss in some cases.

Latent stage:

• No symptoms, but the infection is still in the body.
• Can last for years if untreated.

Tertiary stage (dangerous stage):

• Happens years later if syphilis is not treated.
• Can cause blindness, heart disease, brain damage, and even death.

Can syphilis be cured?

Yes! Syphilis can be completely cured if treated early. The best treatment is penicillin, a common antibiotic. If you are treated for syphilis:

• Avoid sex until your doctor says it is safe.
• Your partner must also be treated to prevent reinfection.
• If you are pregnant, early treatment can protect your baby.

How can you protect yourself from syphilis?

The best way to prevent syphilis is by practicing safe sex. Here are simple ways to protect yourself:

• Use condoms every time you have sex.
• Stick to one faithful partner who is also faithful.
• Go for regular check-ups if you are sexually active.

If pregnant, get tested early to protect your baby.