By Shaun Penner

Sexual Health

Treatment and prevention the focus to combat syphilis outbreak

Jul 17, 2019 | 3:21 PM

The syphilis outbreak declared in the province yesterday by Alberta Health shows Grande Prairie and the rest of the North Zone as a big part of that uptick.

208 cases of infectious syphilis were reported in our zone in 2018, more than tripling the just over 60 cases reported the year prior. However, Senior Medical Officer for Health with AHS Laura McDougall says that this spread is not unique to our region or province.

“Alberta is by no means the only jurisdiction that is seeing an outbreak like this,” said McDougall. “Similar rates are being experienced in other provinces, especially in Western Canada. Also, across Europe and notably Australia.”

The North Zone also saw a slight increase in cases of gonorrhea but did see a drop in the reports of HIV. Reports of chlamydia stayed level with 2017 rates.

With the results now released, the attention for health officials turns to preventative measures and treatment for those affected. One of the first steps people need to take is to be defensive and remember to protect themselves, as STI’s effect all demographics.

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

“All of us, as we’re thinking about our sexual practices and our sexual health need to be mindful of the risk,” said McDougall. “Especially when we have new partners, when we have multiple partners or anonymous partners, how important it is for us to be protecting ourselves.”

McDougall also notes the importance of shedding the stigma surrounding getting tested and having a more open conversation about sexual health.

In Grande Prairie, free STI testing, including for syphilis, can be accessed through the Northreach Society. Appointments to do so can be booked by calling their office at 780-538-3388. Testing can also be done through your family doctor or The College and Community Health Centre.

McDougall also notes one portion of the population that needs to be aware of their status is expecting mothers. Congenital syphilis can be contracted by the baby during pregnancy, but if detected early enough, that spread can be stopped.

“Syphilis is a bacteria at the end of the day, that responds well to anti-biotic treatment, both for the baby and for the mother,” said McDougall. “Especially when it’s early in the syphilis case for the mother.”

Between 2014 and 2018, 4 cases of congenital syphilis were reported in the North Zone. 22 in total were reported Alberta wide.