Syphilis Notifications in Australia More Than Double, Declared a National Incident
"A survey of 819 Australian healthcare workers found 54% report low confidence in when to test or refer for syphilis."
Syphilis notifications in Australia have more than doubled over the past decade, prompting its declaration as a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance. Despite this alarming trend, a survey by ASHM of 819 Australian healthcare workers reveals significant gaps in clinical response.
Key Findings from the Survey
- 54% of healthcare workers report low confidence in when to test or refer for syphilis.
- Only 38% believe it is their responsibility to raise sexual health with patients.
These statistics highlight a critical disconnect between the scale of the outbreak and the readiness of the healthcare system to address it.
The Silent Threat: Asymptomatic Cases
Up to half of all syphilis cases are asymptomatic, making blood testing essential for diagnosis. Without routine screening, many cases go undetected until severe complications develop.
Untreated syphilis can lead to:
- Neurological disease
- Cardiovascular disease
- In pregnancy: miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death
Tragically, 33 infant deaths in Australia since 2016 have been attributed to congenital syphilis.
Testing Gaps: A Partial Picture
"Clinicians often perform partial STI testing (e.g., chlamydia and gonorrhoea) without including syphilis or HIV serology."
This incomplete approach means that while some sexually transmitted infections are being identified, the most dangerous ones may be missed.
The Call to Action
The authors of the report advocate for:
- Routine, standardized STI screening that includes syphilis and HIV testing
- Normalizing sexual health discussions in clinical practice
By making these conversations routine rather than exceptional, healthcare providers can close the testing gap and help reverse the trajectory of this escalating public health crisis.