Far West Local Health District (FWLHD) is urging the public to prioritise their sexual health by getting tested regularly and using preventative measures, as syphilis infections rise across the District. 

FWLHD Director of Public Health Priscilla Stanley said there has been 20 notifications of syphilis across FWLHD so far in 2024, eight more than for the whole of last year. Seven of this year’s cases were classed as infectious at the time of diagnosis.

“So far in 2024, we are seeing infectious syphilis notifications continue to rise above expected levels,” Ms Stanley said.

"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. 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.

“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.”

It is a trend reflected across the state, with 2,034 notifications of infectious syphilis across NSW in 2023, the highest number reported in the past decade.

In NSW, groups at higher risk of contracting syphilis include:

• males who have sex with males
• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people
• people living in regional and remote areas
• female sexual partners of men who have sex with men
• babies of mothers who have not had syphilis testing and treatment during pregnancy.

Syphilis is a significant public health concern for pregnant women due to the risk of passing the infection on to their unborn child. If left untreated in pregnancy, syphilis increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth or death of the newborn, or can lead to significant health impacts such as hearing loss and brain damage.

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. Once syphilis is detected, it can be easily treated with antibiotics,” Ms Stanley said.

“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 or calling the Infolink on 1800 451 624 between 9:00am to 5:30pm weekdays.