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Hawaii’s healthcare officials, led by physician Gov. Josh Green, stressed the need for expanded screening and treatment to address the rising cases of syphilis among women and newborns.
The Department of Health issued a statement expressing concern about the alarming increase in congenital syphilis cases in women and the urgent attention required.
The number of cases of babies born with congenital syphilis has risen from zero to four cases between 2000 and 2019, and to 20 cases in 2021.
Preliminary data indicates a dramatic increase to at least 22 cases in the past year, closely tied to the rising infection rates among adults.
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An aerial view of Oahu Island in Hawaii.
“All sexually active individuals with risk factors for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) should undergo regular testing for syphilis and other STIs,” stated Dr. Diana Felton, the chief of the Department of Health’s Communicable Disease and Public Health Nursing Division.
Dr. Felton also emphasized the importance of triple syphilis screening for pregnant individuals: during the first trimester, at 28 to 32 weeks of gestation, and at the time of delivery. It is crucial that sexual partners receive treatment to prevent reinfection.
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The seal of the State of Hawaii at the Hawaii State Capitol Building in O’ahu, Hawaii.
Given that most cases of congenital syphilis in Hawaii are reported in individuals who received late or no prenatal care, the Department of Health is urging increased screening during healthcare interactions beyond prenatal care.
“Syphilis can have severe health implications, especially for developing babies, including an elevated risk of stillbirth or postnatal death,” added Dr. Felton. “The devastating effects of untreated syphilis can be prevented if infections are detected early and treatment is promptly initiated.”
A view of the skyline of the Waikiki neighborhood of Honolulu.
Visiting emergency rooms, urgent care centers, and primary care clinics provides crucial opportunities to identify and treat syphilis and prevent the recurrence of congenital syphilis.
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The department strongly recommends that women initiate prenatal care as soon as they learn they are pregnant, ideally during the first trimester.
The health department is also advising healthcare providers to be vigilant in screening for syphilis cases in people who may become pregnant and during pregnancy.
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