Syphilis

Protect yourself and your partner!

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health issues if left untreated. Anyone can get syphilis. If you are sexually active, or you or your partner has multiple sexual partners you are at a higher risk of getting syphilis. The infection can also be passed to the fetus in the womb or during birth. Many people who have syphilis don't know they have it and don't notice any symptoms.

Do know Syphilis cases are on the rise across the country including right here in Schenectady County.

Syphilis can impact anyone, including people who are pregnant and their unborn baby. Schenectady County Public Health Services needs your help tackling this challenge. Join the community conversation and help the county develop an approach to decreasing syphilis.

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Know the symptoms and talk to your doctor

Syphilis progresses in four stages and each stage has different symptoms. Syphilis is a treatable and curable infection. However, if left untreated, it can lead to severe health problems and even death.

Early Symptoms

Single sore or multiple sores around the area where syphilis entered your body

Secondary Stage Symptoms

Skin rash on your hands, feet, or other parts of your body
Fever
Sore throat
Muscle aches
Headache
Hair loss
Fatigue

What do I Do if I've Been Exposed to Syphilis?

Get Tested and Get Treated!

Get tested! Go to your health care provider and do not have sex until you get your results. STI testing is completely confidential. If you are pregnant, it is important to get tested for syphilis at your first prenatal care visit. Syphilis can be passed from a pregnant person to the fetus (unborn baby) and can cause severe health problems, stillbirth, and death after delivery.

Syphilis and Congenital Syphilis are highly treatable and easily cured with antibiotics from a healthcare provider.