"Alarming Surge: Houston Area Witnesses 128% Spike in Syphilis Cases Among Women in 2022"

The Houston Health Department has declared a crisis as syphilis cases in the Houston area have risen by 128%, with a nine-fold increase in congenital syphilis. The surge is primarily attributed to pregnant women transmitting the disease to their babies. The health department is urging pregnant women to get tested at their first prenatal visit, in the third trimester, and at delivery. To combat the issue, the department is waiving clinical fees for testing. Syphilis can often go undetected due to lack of visible signs or misinterpreted symptoms. Individuals who are pregnant or have engaged in unprotected or multiple partner sexual activity are encouraged to get tested.