Increase in syphilis cases in Santa Fe, an old threat that resurfaces

Monday 3.6.2024

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Last update 6:50

Facundo Peralta, provincial director of Comprehensive Sexual Health, spoke with El Litoral about the increasing incidence of syphilis cases in recent years. A situation that led the Ministry of Health of Santa Fe to prioritize this issue on its public agenda through information and awareness campaigns.

Peralta explained that it is crucial to distinguish between the different sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that cause concern. In particular, syphilis and congenital syphilis are two forms that have shown a sustained increase since 2000. “This increase intensified after the pandemic, with cases quadrupling,” Peralta stated. Various actions are being implemented by the provincial Ministry to address this public health problem.

Syphilis is an ancient infection caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. Throughout history, it went through different critical moments. Once the causative agent was identified, detection methods were developed and, with the appearance of penicillin, the disease could be effectively treated. “In the 90s, talking about syphilis was rare because it was considered eradicated and did not represent a public health problem. However, since 2000, the situation has changed and in recent years it has worsened, requiring a renewed response from the Ministries of Health,” said Peralta.

The director stressed that the increase in syphilis cases is not exclusive to Santa Fe, but is a national and global problem. “It is important to put on the public agenda that syphilis is a sexual transmission crisis that exists in Santa Fe, but also at the national and global level,” said Peralta.

To combat this situation, it is essential to promote prevention, condom use and early detection. “People should know that they can be tested for syphilis at any health center for free and confidentially. In addition, social services cover this test,” he explained.

When asked about the possible reasons for the increase in cases, the interviewee commented that it would be insufficient to analyze the problem solely from a medical or microbiological perspective. “We have a causative agent, detection methods and a cure. So, obviously, the problem is not just there,” he said.

Peralta suggested that cultural and social factors typical of these times play a crucial role. He also highlighted the need for a political response to recognize the magnitude of the issue and work to reduce it. “We must understand the cultural and social context and address the problem from a comprehensive perspective,” he added.

On the other hand, the official emphasized that syphilis is not limited to a specific age, gender or social class. “If you review the national epidemiological report, you will notice that younger ages, due to more active sexuality, have a higher number of cases. However, syphilis runs through the entire society at this time,” he commented. .

Peralta explained that one of the first symptoms of this disease is the chancre, a painless ulcer that may appear in the mouth or genitals. “Because it is painless, it generally goes unnoticed. This chancre is short-lived and disappears, but the infection is still present.”

Primary syphilis, characterized by the appearance of the chancre, can progress to secondary syphilis if it is not treated. In this stage, Symptoms may include skin rashes and itching, which can be confused with common allergic reactions. “It is a quite misleading infection in that sense,” the official warned.

If it is not detected and treated, it can progress to its tertiary stage, the most worrying, where the infection compromises vital organs and can have serious health consequences. “That’s why it’s crucial to detect syphilis in its early stages,” he stressed.

There are two forms of testing. The rapid test, which involves pricking your finger and analyzing a drop of blood, gives results in approximately 20 minutes. If the result is positive, a traditional blood test is needed to confirm the infection. “If the analysis confirms syphilis, treatment with penicillin is started, which is quite simple and effective,” said Peralta.

The interviewee also addressed the issue of congenital syphilis, which is transmitted from mother to baby during birth. “It is essential that pregnant women get tested for syphilis and HIV during pregnancy, and that their partners also do so. This is not only the responsibility of women“he emphasized.

Pregnancy care includes testing before delivery. “If syphilis is detected before birth, penicillin can be applied to the mother to prevent transmission to the baby,” said the area director.

The official concluded by highlighting the importance of promotion and prevention in the fight against this disease. “Promoting condom use and symptom detection is essential. In addition, anyone can have a general check-up every six months or a year to detect possible infections,” he recommended.

The prophylactic not only reduces the possibility of sexually transmitted infections, but also prevents unwanted pregnancies. “It is a method of personal care and care for others,” he said.

In relation to another sexually transmitted disease such as HIV. The interviewee explained that people have the right to receive antiretroviral treatment. “With good adherence to treatment, they can achieve an undetectable viral load, meaning the virus is so low that tests do not detect it.” This significantly improves the quality of life of people with HIV.