Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that is caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum. This bacterium infects the mucous membranes of the body, such as the genitals, anus, mouth, and throat, as well as the skin.

The disease is spread through sexual contact with an infected person, typically through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Syphilis can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her unborn fetus during pregnancy or to her newborn during delivery.

The Current Situation in Europe

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of reported cases of syphilis in many countries in Europe.

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the number of cases of syphilis reported in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) has more than doubled since 2010.

There were over 33,000 reported cases of syphilis in the EU/EEA in 2017, which represents a rate of 7.1 per 100,000 population. The highest rates were reported in Malta, Iceland, the United Kingdom, and Germany.

Possible Reasons for the Increase

There are several possible reasons for the increase in the number of reported cases of syphilis in Europe. One reason is the increase in risky sexual behavior, such as having unprotected sex with multiple partners.

This is particularly true among young adults who may not fully understand the risks associated with sexually transmitted infections.

Another reason for the increase may be due to the availability of effective treatment for syphilis. In the past, syphilis was a serious and often incurable disease. However, with the advent of antibiotics, syphilis can be easily treated and cured.

This may have led to a decrease in fear of the disease and a decrease in the use of condoms as a means of protection against syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections.

Finally, the increase in the number of reported cases of syphilis may also be due to better and more frequent testing for the disease. With more people being tested for syphilis, more cases are being detected and reported.

The Symptoms of Syphilis

The symptoms of syphilis can vary depending on the stage of the disease. There are four stages of syphilis, each with its own set of symptoms.

Primary Syphilis

The first stage of syphilis typically begins with the appearance of a small, painless sore called a chancre. The chancre usually appears on the genitals, anus, or mouth and lasts for 3-6 weeks.

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The sore may go unnoticed or be mistaken for a pimple or insect bite.

Secondary Syphilis

If left untreated, syphilis can progress to the secondary stage, which typically occurs 2-8 weeks after the appearance of the chancre. During this stage, a rash may appear on the body and/or sores may appear in the mouth, vagina, or anus.

Other symptoms may include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.

Latent Syphilis

After the secondary stage, the disease enters a latent phase in which there are no visible symptoms. This phase can last for years, and during this time the bacteria continue to multiply in the body.

Tertiary Syphilis

The final stage of syphilis is called tertiary syphilis and can occur years or even decades after the initial infection. At this stage, the bacteria can cause serious damage to the brain, eyes, heart, and other organs.

Symptoms may include loss of coordination, blindness, dementia, and paralysis.

Preventing the Spread of Syphilis

The best way to prevent the spread of syphilis is to practice safe sex. This means using condoms consistently and correctly, and limiting the number of sexual partners.

It’s also important to get tested regularly for syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections, especially if you are sexually active with multiple partners.

If you are diagnosed with syphilis, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Syphilis can be cured with antibiotics, but the longer the disease is left untreated, the greater the risk of serious complications.

The Bottom Line

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that is on the rise in Europe. The disease can cause serious health complications if left untreated, but can be easily cured with antibiotics.

To prevent the spread of syphilis, it’s important to practice safe sex and get tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections.