MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota health officials are warning that infections from mothers to infants are surging.
According to the Minnesota Department of Health, 29 babies were born with congenital syphilis last year, the highest number in more than 40 years.
The overall number of syphilis cases in Minnesota has increased by 244% over the past 10 years. According to MDH, cases of early syphilis are increasing by more than 1,800% in women.
Syphilis is usually transmitted through sexual contact. Congenital syphilis occurs when someone passes the infection to their fetus during pregnancy and can cause serious complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, and brain and nerve problems.
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The state requires health care providers in Minnesota to test all pregnant women at least three times during pregnancy: at the first prenatal visit, early in the second trimester, and at delivery. Pregnant people with symptoms of syphilis or sexual partners who have recently been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease should undergo additional testing.
The Department of Health cited multiple factors, including “differences in health insurance coverage, employment status, and access to prevention, testing, and treatment services,” to suggest that the disease disproportionately affects American Indian, Black, and Hispanic communities. He said that it is having an impact.
“Updated congenital syphilis screening recommendations are an important tool to help close some of these gaps. Continued additional community investment and support is needed to address the root causes of health disparities in our state.” ,” said Dr. Nathan Chomilo, the center's medical director. Minnesota's Medicaid and MinnesotaCare Programs.
MDH recommends that healthcare providers consider syphilis screening for all sexually active patients.
