Syphilis is one of the first sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is an STI caused by a bacterial infection called Treponema Pallidum. This bacterium needs a warm, moist environment such as the mouth or genitals to grow and reproduce. It is a serious disease that can lead to systemic disease or even death if left untreated. How common is it? Rates are highest among women ages 20 to 24 and also common in men who have sex with other men. According to the CDC, 55,400 people in the United States get new syphilis infections each year. 13,970 of these cases involved primary and secondary syphilis, the earliest and most infectious stages of the disease. “In 2011, 72 percent of primary and secondary syphilis cases occurred among men who have sex with men. In 2011 there were also 360 reports of children suffering from congenital syphilis. “Syphilis is easy to prevent. The best way to prevent it is to abstain or be in a long-term committed relationship with someone who has tested negative. By using condoms correctly and consistently, the risk can be significantly reduced, but it will not be completely eliminated. Another way is to wash your genitals after having sex and avoid any drug or alcohol use to prevent risky behaviors you may endure. Who should be tested Anyone currently diagnosed with an STI or HIV should be screened. If you are a male and have sex with other males, have partners who have tested positive for syphilis, you will need to undergo screening. If you are pregnant you should be screened at your first prenatal visit, at the end of the third trimester and before giving birth, to prevent congenital syphilis. Transmission: This STI is transmitted through microscopic abrasions in the tissue under the skin. Transm......middle of paper......having sexual contact. It is a legal requirement to inform any sexual partner of the STI. Adequate monthly follow-up care is required so that treatment can be administered again if necessary. Anyone with a history of any STI is recommended for long-term checkups, because if you have already had syphilis, that doesn't mean it won't come back later. Mother-child breastfeeding 100-101Perry, Shannon E., Marilyn J. Hockenberry, Deitra Leonard Lowdermilk, and David Wilson. Maternal and child nursing care. Maryland Heights: MosbyElesvier, 2010. Print.(PHLW 100-101) Total Fitness: 376Powers, Scott K., Stephen L. Dodd, and Erica M. Jackson. Total fitness and well-being. vol. 6E. Glenview: Pearson, 2013. Print. (PDJ 376) CDC. “Syphilis – CDC Fact Sheet.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Feb. 11, 2013. Web. Nov. 13, 2013. (CDC, web)