Test all pregnant women for syphilis at the first prenatal encounter.
Repeat syphilis testing during the third trimester among women at risk for STD (e.g., recent history of bacterial STD, multiple partners, homelessness; methamphetamine, opioid, or cocaine use; exchanging sex for money, drugs, etc.; having a sex partner who is a man who has sex with men).
If a mother delivers with no syphilis serology on record, ensure completion of syphilis serologic testing prior to discharge of the mother and baby.
Within three days, report any clinical or laboratory evidence of syphilis in pregnant women, delivering mothers, or their infants to the Health Department.
Within three days, report all suspected and confirmed cases of syphilis to the Health Department.
Background
Syphilis increases are occurring statewide, particularly in larger urban areas (e.g., King, Spokane, Pierce, Snohomish and Yakima Counties).
These increases raise concern because syphilis is known to facilitate the transmission of HIV.
Heterosexual cases are occurring as well as among men who have sex with men.
Neurologic and ocular involvement has been reported more frequently than in prior years.
