Syphilis increase in Herefordshire (From Hereford Times)
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Syphilis increase in Herefordshire
9:49am Wednesday 15th February 2012 in Local News
A RISE in cases of infectious syphilis affecting men across Herefordshire has prompted health experts to urge those at risk to get tested.
NHS services and the Health Protection Agency (HPA) are investigating the rise in cases of the sexually transmitted infection, which has predominantly affected men who have sex with men.
Syphilis is infectious in its early stages and symptoms may not be immediate. Left untreated, it can cause permanent damage to many organs including the eyes, heart and brain.
In 2011, 20 cases have been confirmed by the Gaol Street Health Centre in Hereford, compared to less than five during 2010.
As a result, a dedicated men’s clinic has been set up and a campaign of awareness-raising has been undertaken, including posters, flyers and adverts on dedicated websites.
• For help contact the Hereford Sexual health Service at the Gaol Street Health Centre on 01432 378915. There is a dedicated men’s walk-in clinic on Wednesday evenings from 6pm to 7.30pm.
