Posted on 11/22/2003 5:24:10 PM PST by chance33_98
Syphilis Cases Rising In Idaho
By Mike Keckler
BOISE - Many think of syphilis as the disease that killed Al Capone. But in the Treasure Valley, syphilis is back. "What that tells us is that folks are out there having unprotected intercourse," says State Epidemiologist Dr. Christine Hahn.
52 syphilis cases have been reported in Idaho, mainly in the Treasure Valley area over the last two years - 29 this year alone. In the previous two years, just 22 case were reported. Health officials are particularly concerned because many of the victims are pregnant. "We've had seven pregnant women test positive so far for syphilis," said Hahn. The disease can cause babies to be stillborn. If they survive, it can create serious health problems.
About half of the 52 new cases are reported in the area encompassed Southwest Health District which includes Canyon, Owyhee, Gem, Payette, Washington and Adams Counties. About half of the victims are young Hispanics. "This particular set of circumstances is disproportionately impacting the young Hispanic population and therefore it is vitally important to get the information out," said Gene Gunderson, the district's director.
Fliers both in Spanish and English are being handed out but the stigma associated with syphilis makes getting the word out, difficult. "It is very difficult to get people to admit and come in for testing," says Gunderson. "But in this case, it is vitally important that we test people."
Southwest District Health is offering free confidential syphilis testing. Call 455-5345 for more details. "If you know you are putting yourself at risk, you need to probably talk to somebody and get a health check," said Hahn.
(steely)
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