The number of Oregonians with syphilis is increasing

(NOVEMBER 24, 2023) The number of people with syphilis in Oregon is growing. A new report says that Oregon is the 9th highest state for infections. In 2022, almost 2,500 people in Oregon had syphilis.

Syphilis is an old disease. A bacteria causes it. The disease usually moves from person to person by direct contact. This is often through sex. However, it can also move from mother to child during pregnancy. However, a person cannot catch it by using the same toilet, bathtub, clothing, eating utensils, doorknobs, swimming pools, or hot tubs.

Symptoms can be a painless ulcer or a rash all over the body. Sometimes a person doesn't see a problem for a long time. Sometimes these things get better on their own. Sometimes doctors give patients antibiotics, like penicillin.

There is no vaccine for syphilis. However, safer sex, including using a condom, can lower the risk of infection.