Health experts are sounding the alarm after Mississippi reported a major surge in syphilis cases — and yes, it’s serious enough to be called an epidemic.
According to the latest CDC report, Mississippi now ranks third in the U.S. for primary and secondary syphilis cases. The state also makes the top five for gonorrhea and chlamydia. But the most concerning figure? A 1,000% increase in congenital syphilis — when the infection passes from mother to baby during pregnancy.
“It’s a nationwide epidemic,” says Dr. Kayla Stover, professor and vice chair of pharmacy practice at the University of Mississippi. “In Mississippi, we’ve seen an 80% increase in overall cases and a 1,000% increase in congenital syphilis.”
Why Syphilis Is Tricky to Detect
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Like other STDs, it’s spread through contact with infected fluids — often during sexual activity.
It has been considered an ‘epidemic’ (Getty Stock Image)
The problem? It’s a master of disguise. Symptoms can come and go, sometimes not showing up for years after infection. That means people can have it without realizing — and unknowingly pass it to others.
Stages & Symptoms to Watch For
Dr. Stover explains the timeline:
- Primary Stage (2–3 weeks after exposure)
- A small, painless sore (lesion) appears on the mouth or genitals.
- It can heal on its own — which tricks people into thinking they’re fine.
- Secondary Stage (8–12 weeks after exposure)
- A rash may appear on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet.
- Other symptoms might include fever, swollen lymph nodes, or sore throat.
- Latent Stage
- Symptoms disappear, but the bacteria remain in your body — waiting.
- Tertiary Stage (years later, if untreated)
- Serious complications like blindness, heart disease, nerve damage, mental health problems, or even brain damage.
How to Protect Yourself
Doctors are advising safe sex practices (Getty Stock Image)
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- Get tested regularly — once a year, or more often if you have multiple sexual partners (CDC Testing Guidelines).
- Practice safe sex — use condoms and communicate openly with partners.
- Seek treatment early — syphilis is curable with antibiotics, but only if caught in time.
Bottom Line
There’s no shame in getting tested — in fact, it’s one of the smartest moves for your health. As Dr. Stover puts it:
“Everybody should get tested because we’re taking control of our health and making sure we and our partners are safe.”
So, whether you’re in Mississippi or anywhere else, consider this your reminder: schedule that test and protect yourself.
