The Ministry of Health’s National Syphilis Action Plan is aimed at stemming the rising number of syphilis infections reported annually; they increased from 82 to 543 over six years. A senior official in the department has spoken out about ‘the rise of congenital syphilis’, however the plan also targets the most affected groups – MSM (70% of cases), ‘Asian and Mâori men, and Mâori women’. Programs to be implemented include public awareness, education, STI testing and promotion of correct condom use. Read more
Advice for travellers
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacterium that enters through wounded skin or mucous membranes. You can get syphilis by direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Infections can cause long-term complications if not treated correctly with an effective antibiotic. Read more about syphilis and other STIs.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.