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Rates of syphilis infection have remained high since an outbreak was declared in 2019. In 2014, there were only 160 cases reported and no babies were born with syphilis. Between 2015 and 2025, nearly 21,000 infectious syphilis cases were reported in adolescents and adults and more than 430 cases in babies. Cases continue to be reported in 2026 and reflects a rise in syphilis across Canada and around the world.
Populations Impacted
Syphilis affects people of all genders, ages and sexual orientations. Anyone who is sexually active is at risk. The infection is passed through sexual contact with the mouth, bum, penis or vagina. Syphilis often shows no symptoms, so it is easily spread to others without knowing. Having syphilis in the past does not protect you in the future; there is no permanent immunity (protection), and reinfection can happen at any time.
Syphilis in Pregnancy and Infants
If a person has syphilis while pregnant, they can pass the infection to their baby. This is known as congenital syphilis and can lead to severe, life-threatening illnesses. Tragically, up to 20% of infected babies die before birth.
Treatment
While syphilis is treatable, it requires a specific antibiotic prescribed by a healthcare provider—it cannot be treated by yourself at home. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to permanent, long-term, and severe health problems.
Prevention
Protect yourself and others: use condoms with all types of sex and get tested regularly.
Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM) and transgender women (TGW) who are at risk of bacterial STIs may be eligible for medication (DoxyPep) that can reduce the risk of syphilis, chlamydia, and possibly gonorrhea infections. For more information, contact your healthcare provider or call a Sexual Health Clinic for assistance in finding a provider.
Primary Care Alberta encourages all healthcare providers in Alberta to talk about STI/HIV testing with all patients during routine office visits.
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