Syphilis spikes in SLO County amid penicillin shortage. Here’s what you need to know

Rates of syphilis are spiking in San Luis Obispo County amid a national surge in cases of this common sexually transmitted infection..

The increase in syphilis is leading to a national shortage of penicillin, one antibiotic used to treat the bacterial disease, according to a Monday news release from the San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department.

In 2022, 99 cases of syphilis were diagnosed in SLO County, an increase consistent with trends in California and the United States, the release said.

In comparison, 65 cases were diagnosed locally in 2021, the county said.

Researchers are investigating the cause of the nationwide spike, but, regardless of the cause, health officials urge caution.

“Syphilis can be prevented and, even amid this medication shortage, it can be cured if it is found in the early stages,” SLO County Health Officer Dr. Penny Borenstein said in the release. “However, syphilis can cause very serious health problems if it is left untreated and can be especially devastating when it is transmitted to a baby during pregnancy and birth.

“Our public health team is here to help you protect yourself, get tested, and get treatment if needed.”

Syphilis can be contracted through sexual contact and can be transmitted to an unborn baby during pregnancy, the release said.

According to the release, syphilis can be identified with blood tests and can be cured using antibiotics if treated early on in the infection.

The most common treatment for syphilis is an injectable form of penicillin called Bicillin L-A.

The surge in syphilis cases nationwide is driving a supply shortage for the antibiotic. Other medications can be used to treat syphilis, but require a longer course of treatment.

If not treated, syphilis can spread to the brain and nervous system or to the eye, creating health complications such as hearing loss, stroke and blindness. Syphilis in infants can cause severe health problems and even lead to newborn death.

“If you have syptoms or think you may have been exposed to syphilis, please don’t let this shortage deter you from getting tested,” Borenstein said. “There are still good options available and it’s important to treat syphilis as soon as possible so it doesn’t cause further damage to your body.”

Confidential, low-cost testing, treatment and education about sexually transmitted infections is available at the SLO County Public Health Department. Public health nurses can help patients with information on protecting themselves and their partners and offer free condoms.

Appointments can be made by calling 805-781-5500 or visiting slocounty.ca.gov/STD-Test.