The South East Public Health Unit is urging GPs to include a syphilis test when assessing patients for sexually transmitted infections.
This follows a doubling of syphilis cases nationally in the past decade and the declaration last year of syphilis as a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance.
“A syphilis test was once seen as only needed for high-risk groups,” said Dr Edura Jalil, the Acting Director of SEPHU. “The standard now is ‘Test for one, test for all’. Syphilis is preventable, and early detection and treatment are critical.”
In Victoria, a record 2,769 syphilis cases were notified in 2023. Of concern, there has been a resurgence of congenital syphilis cases since 2017.
“Syphilis can be asymptomatic and, if symptomatic, can mimic other conditions,” Dr Jalil said. “We encourage professionals to move from risk-based testing to opportunistic and enhanced testing strategies to protect all communities.”
ASHM, the peak professional body representing healthcare professionals working in human immunodeficiency virus, blood-borne viruses and sexual and reproductive health, has released a comprehensive online guide to help primary health professionals make informed decisions for their patients.