The public health departments in St. Louis City and County have issued a joint statement about a big jump in sexually transmitted infections in the region -- specifically, syphilis.
Over the last five years, the St. Louis region has seen a sharp increase in cases of syphilis -- and specifically congenital syphilis, which is passed from mother to child. It can have devastating effects on newborns.
In 2021, there were 11 cases of congenital syphilis in both St. Louis County and St. Louis City -- 22 cases combined. In 2017, the county had only three cases and the city had only one.
Both the city and county health directors are urging residents to get tested for syphilis if they are sexually active and especially if they are considering pregnancy or are already pregnant. Their partners should also get tested immediately, they say.
Any congenital syphilis case is heartbreaking, they two doctors say, because it is completely preventable.
Syphilis testing and treatment are available for free or at a low cost in various locations throughout the area.
Listen to KMOX's Fred Bodimer discussing the issue on Total Information AM: