(GIST OF SCIENCE REPORTER) Syphilis

(JULY-2024)

It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause serious health problems if you do not treat it.
It is caused by the bacteria, Treponema pallidum.
After the infection happens, syphilis bacteria can stay in the body for many years without causing symptoms. But the infection can become active again.

People usually get syphilis from sexual contact with someone who has it.
It can also pass from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and sometimes through breastfeeding.

Syphilis develops in stages.
The symptoms vary with each stage and is often painless.
The disease starts as a sore that's often painless and typically appears on the genitals, rectum, or mouth.
Sometimes it causes swelling in nearby lymph nodes.
If you do not treat it, syphilis usually causes a non-itchy skin rash, often on your hands and feet.
Many people do not notice symptoms for years. Symptoms can go away and come back.
If left untreated, it can cause serious health issues. It can permanently damage your heart, brain, muscles, bones, and eyes.

Syphilis is treatable and curable. It is easy to cure with antibiotics, especially during in the early stages.
Penicillin is the most commonly used medication for syphilis.