July 18, 2019
Between 2010 and 2017, the number of detected syphilis cases jumped by 70% in Europe. This sexually transmitted infection is very dangerous and can be fatal.
An upsurge in syphilis cases
According to a report from the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), 260,000 new cases of syphilis were identified in Europe between 2007 and 2017. The number of people with syphilis had decreased slightly over the past ten years, before knowing an increase. In 2017, around 33,000 cases were recorded, an increase of 70% compared to 2010.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). The person infected with the bacterium Treponema pallidum develops a painless ulceration of the penis, vagina or anus. Other symptoms such as fever, joint pain, and rashes on the skin and mucous membranes may occur. Left untreated, this disease can cause serious health problems, affecting the heart as well as the brain.
Europeans less vigilant
The various countries of the European Union are affected by this upsurge. However, 15 countries reported an increase of more than 15% in syphilis cases over the period 2010-2017. Iceland, Ireland and the United Kingdom are the countries most affected. Next come Germany and Malta. In addition, the increase in infections is linked to a decrease in the vigilance of people having sex without a condom but also of multiple partners.
The report’s authors note that for the first time since the start of the 21st century, Europe has more cases of syphilis than HIV infections. The study specifies that the people most affected are homosexual men living in urban areas. The authors recommend more regular screening for these people at risk.
Stephanie Haerts
For more information: the list of infectious diseases
