Syphilis

CAUSE:
A bacterium called Treponema pallidum.

SPREAD BY:

Vaginal, anal or oral sex.

SIGNS:

The first sign of syphilis is a painless sore on the penis or in the vagina, rectum or throat. This does not always develop, or if internal, may not be noticed. It is called a “chancre” (“shan-ker”). It may take as long as three months to occur. It is usually painless, unlike herpes. It clears up within a few weeks.

The next signs appear three to 12 weeks later. They may include a rash, and ulcers in the mouth and genital area.

Years later syphilis can cause damage to the brain and the heart. Also a mother can infect her baby. These are very serious complications. They only occur if the infection has not been diagnosed and treated.

TREATMENT:

Syphilis is treated with a course ot penicillin injections. If you are allergic to penicillin it is treated with another antibiotic. It is very important that you complete the course, and that you go back to the doctor afterwards for follow-up.

For further information please consult:

Your General Practitioner
Sexual Health Clinic
Family Planning Centre
Hosptal