Warning as 'medieval' STI surging across UK - full list of symptoms




A sharp increase in syphilis cases across the UK has prompted health experts to issue urgent warnings about the potentially life-threatening consequences of untreated infections.

Dr Donald Grant of The Independent Pharmacy has highlighted the subtle symptoms of syphilis, which can include unusual sores around the genitals or mouth that are often mistaken for cold sores or pimples.

The UK Health Security Agency reported a 20%  rise in syphilis diagnoses between 2021 and 2023, with the West Midlands seeing a staggering 149% increase in heterosexual men alone.

Syphilis is transmitted through unprotected sexual contact and the sharing of sex toys, with rising cases attributed to changing sexual behaviours, dating apps, and a lack of sexual health education, particularly among older generations.

Dr Grant warns that untreated syphilis can lead to severe complications, including heart, nerve, and brain damage. 

Symptoms evolve through several stages, starting with painless sores, followed by rashes, fever, and fatigue, and eventually progressing to a latent stage with no visible symptoms but ongoing internal damage.

The NHS stresses the importance of early testing and treatment, typically with antibiotics, to prevent long-term health issues.

As STI rates climb, especially among baby boomers, calls for improved sexual health strategies are growing louder across the UK.



Source link

Posted: 2025-02-14 21:04:04

Roses will bloom brilliantly in spring if 4 natural scraps are added to the garden soil
 



... Read More

Agnès B: ‘I hate fashion. It’s not interesting.’ | Fashion
 



... Read More

'I built the car in which an F1 driver died - it broke me for a little while' | F1 | Sport
 



... Read More

UK economy grows by 0.1% in unexpected boost for Rachel Reeves | Economic growth (GDP)
 



... Read More

Israel warns of 'planned attacks' in countries including UK | World | News
 



... Read More

Lindsey Vonn to enter World Cup next weekend in her comeback at age 40
 



... Read More

EastEnders' Steve McFadden enjoys tranquil life in Cornwall
 



... Read More

Mary Berry’s bacon and potato breakfast dish is very tasty if cooked with 1 ingredient
 



... Read More