Thousands of Syphilis Cases Reported Across Wales, Prompting Public Health Warning
Cardiff, Wales – A significant rise in syphilis cases has prompted a warning from Public Health Wales, with thousands of infections reported across the country. New data reveals a concerning trend of increasing sexually transmitted infections (STIs),especially among young people.
The latest figures show that between January and December 2023, Wales recorded 3,418 cases of syphilis – the highest number since the beginning of comparable data collection. This represents a rate of 105.8 infections per 100,000 of the population.The increase has raised concerns about rising transmission rates and the need for proactive sexual health management.
The highest infection rate was identified in Powys, with 148.8 cases per 100,000 people. Swansea Bay University Health Board, covering Swansea, Neath, and Port Talbot, reported 117.5 infections per 100,000, followed by Aneurin Bevan University Health Board (covering Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Monmouthshire, Newport, and Torfaen) with a rate of 109.7 per 100,000.
Syphilis, a historically significant disease once widespread, can have serious long-term health consequences if left untreated. While treatable with antibiotics, early detection is crucial.Public Health wales has emphasized the importance of accessible testing and encourages individuals to utilize its free, confidential test-and-post service, including STI testing kits that can be delivered to homes.
“While these rising numbers may reflect in part an increase in the number of tests being carried out in Wales, they also raise concerns of increasing transmission of these sexually transmitted infections, particularly among young people,” stated Professor Daniel Thomas, consultant epidemiologist at Public Health Wales, when the Sexual Health Trends in Wales report was published. “Public Health Wales remains committed to providing accessible testing for STIs… and encourages everyone to take proactive steps to manage thier sexual health.”
