The Hastings Prince Edward Public Health Unit is warning of a “significant” increase in local cases of syphilis.
According to the health unit there have been 16 cases of the sexually transmitted infection locally in 2021 including seven in June alone.
This follows 10 cases each in 2020 and 2019 which still marked an increase over the previous average of two to three cases annually.
In a press release Wednesday, representatives of the health unit advised that anyone who is having unprotected sex is at risk and should consider talking to a healthcare professional about testing.
Symptoms of syphilis can often be mild and attributed to other conditions.
Possible symptoms include painless sores in the genital, mouth, or rectal area, swollen lymph nodes, rash, fever, general feeling of being unwell, sore throat, headaches, hair loss, and eye redness.
To avoid exposure to syphilis and other STIs it is advised to seek regular testing, especially when you have a new sexual partner, and to know your partner’s status.
To read the full press release from the health unit click here.