In recent years, Colorado has experienced a concerning increase in syphilis cases, resulting in a statewide public health order. This initiative aims to address the issue by providing testing and treatment for the disease among pregnant women and newborns. Governor Jared Polis (D-Colo.) announced that Colorado has seen a sevenfold increase in syphilis infections over the last five years, with 1,084 cases reported in 2018 and 3,266 in 2023. The state’s Epidemiologist Rachel Herlihy described this consistent rise as an epidemic of congenital syphilis.
The main concern with congenital syphilis is its impact on newborns who are exposed to the disease through their mothers. The fatality rate for babies born to mothers with syphilis is significant, with approximately 40 percent of untreated cases resulting in stillbirth or death. To address this issue, Governor Polis announced that the state will ensure that testing for syphilis is covered without co-pays for most insured Coloradans, including those with Medicaid. Additionally, the state will increase education efforts about the importance of testing and treating syphilis to prevent transmission from pregnant women to their newborns.
Syphilis is a treatable disease for adults, with penicillin usually being effective in treating it. However, when left untreated or not adequately treated, it can have serious consequences for both individuals and public health. Governor Polis emphasized that preventing transmission from pregnant women to their newborns remains the focus of this initiative to protect public health.
In conclusion, Colorado’s spike in syphilis cases has led to a statewide public health order aimed at reducing cases among pregnant women and newborns. The main goal of this initiative is to ensure that these individuals receive testing and treatment for syphilis while also educating people about its importance and potential risks.
Governor Polis stated that Colorado has seen a sevenfold increase in syphilis infections over the last five years, with 1,084 cases reported in 2018 and 3,266 in 2023. State Epidemiologist Rachel Herlihy described this consistent rise as indicative of a statewide congenital syphilis epidemic.
To address this issue head-on, Governor Polis announced that Colorado will provide testing coverage without co-pays for most insured Coloradans who require it. Additionally, the state will increase its educational efforts about the importance of testing and treating syphilis among pregnant women and their babies.
While congenital syphilis is treatable with penicillin for adults who receive timely treatment after exposure or infection symptoms manifest themselves