Surge in Syphilis Cases in Onondaga County

Syracuse, NY — Over the past two decades, Onondaga County has witnessed a staggering increase in syphilis cases, nearly 30 times more than reported previously, as per local health data.

This age-old sexually transmitted infection seemed to be close to eradication in the late 1990s. Yet, since then, its prevalence has gradually risen, sharply accelerating after the Covid-19 pandemic.

In 2005, just nine cases were reported in the county. However, the figures surged alarmingly during the pandemic, jumping from 32 cases in 2020 to 136 in 2021. By last year, the total had reached 260.

Onondaga County is not an isolated case; the trend reflects a national concern, with syphilis rates now reaching their highest levels since the 1950s.

Back in 2000, only 35 cases were noted in New York State outside of New York City. Fast forward to today, and major population centers along the Thruway are documenting hundreds of cases annually, resulting in a staggering rise to 3,537 cases reported in 2023.

Syphilis is particularly tricky as, if left untreated, it can severely affect nearly every organ in the body. Early symptoms might include ulcers, fevers, skin and mucosal lesions, and even hepatitis.

Statistics indicate that around 40% of those infected may experience serious complications, which can range from neurological disorders to cardiovascular problems and widespread inflammation, according to research from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Furthermore, untreated syphilis has a mortality rate of about 10%.

The situation is especially concerning for pregnant individuals, as congenital syphilis can be transmitted to fetuses during pregnancy. In 2023, the state recorded 68 cases of congenital syphilis, an increase from 51 the previous year, with roughly 15% of these cases resulting in neonatal death at birth or shortly thereafter.

Experts suggest several reasons behind this recent surge:

• During the height of the AIDS epidemic, many sexual partners—particularly in homosexual couples—were more cautious. As treatments for HIV became more manageable, those preventative measures began to fade.
• There’s a persistent shortage of penicillin G benzathine, the antibiotic traditionally used for treating syphilis.
• The disease has become more widespread among individuals who use drugs.
• Testing rates saw a decline during the pandemic.

In response, Onondaga County is working to heighten awareness about the rise in certain types of syphilis. Recently, the health department reported three cases of ocular syphilis, which can potentially cause blindness if not addressed.

The county operates a Sexual Wellness Center located in the basement of the county office building in downtown Syracuse, where individuals can either walk in or schedule an appointment.