A public health crisis has been declared in Colorado after a sharp increase in syphilis cases, particularly among pregnant women and infants. Governor Jared Polis (D-Colo.) announced the implementation of new measures to combat congenital syphilis, which has surged over the past few years. The primary aim of this initiative is to ensure that pregnant women and their babies receive testing and treatment for syphilis.
During an address, Governor Polis emphasized that syphilis is a treatable disease for adults, with penicillin usually being effective in treating it. However, the real concern lies with newborns who are exposed to syphilis, as the mortality rate is high for babies born to infected mothers. According to state officials, approximately 40 percent of untreated congenital syphilis cases may result in stillbirth or death among newborns.
Governor Polis stated that Colorado has seen a sevenfold increase in syphilis cases over the past five years, with 1,084 cases reported in 2018 and 3,266 in 2023. State Epidemiologist Rachel Herlihy described the consistent rise in cases as evidence of a statewide congenital syphilis epidemic. The state is working closely with several agencies such as the Department of Corrections, Department of Public Health and Environment, and Department of Public Safety to reduce cases among correctional facilities.
To tackle this issue head-on, Colorado will make sure that syphilis testing is free without co-pays for most insured Coloradans, including those with Medicaid coverage. Additionally, the state will intensify its education efforts about testing and treating syphilis so that people can be aware if they have it without knowing it. The focus remains on preventing transmission from pregnant women to their babies to protect public health.
In conclusion, Colorado’s alarming spike in syphilis cases necessitates immediate action from both public health officials and policymakers alike to prevent further spread of this treatable disease among pregnant women and infants.