The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and Johnson County Community Health Services (JCCHS) are reporting significantly increased cases of syphilis. DHSS issued a health advisory on February 19, 2019 about the increase, and officials at JCCHS are echoing the report.
“We have noticed an alarming increase in the number of syphilis cases in Johnson County.” stated Ronda Davis, RN, public health coordinator for JCCHS. “We encourage the public to have open communication with their sexual partners about STD’s, get tested, and if positive seek treatment.”
According to DHSS the initial increase in cases occurred primarily in the Kansas City and St. Louis metropolitan areas, but other areas including smaller metropolitan areas and rural counties throughout Missouri are also experiencing a steep increase in cases, particularly among people who use drugs.
The increasing rates of STDs in Missouri, including syphilis and congenital syphilis, mirror nationwide trends seen in recent years. Ongoing public health efforts to reverse current trends will require a renewed commitment from, and continued partnership with, healthcare providers.
Questions should be directed to DHSS’ Bureau of HIV, STD, and Hepatitis at 573-751-6439, or via email at STDinfo@health.mo.gov.
Additional Resources
Complete CDC testing and treatment recommendations:
https://www.cdc.gov/std/tg2015/default.htm
DHSS Syphilis Overview:
https://health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/communicable/stds/syphilis.php
Leave a Comment