Syphilis is one of the first sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This is an STI caused by a bacterial infection called Treponema Pallidum. This bacteria needs a warm, moist environment like the mouth or genitals to grow and reproduce. It is a serious illness that can lead to systemic illness and even death if left untreated. What is its frequency? Rates are highest among women aged 20 to 24, and also common among men who have sex with men. According to the CDC, each year, 55,400 people in the United States get new syphilis infections. Of these cases, 13,970 were primary and secondary syphilis, the earliest and most contagious stages of the disease. “In 2011, 72% of primary and secondary syphilis occurred in men who have sex with men. In 2011, 360 children with congenital syphilis were also reported. “Syphilis is easy to prevent. The best way to avoid it is to be abstinent or have a long-term committed relationship with someone who tests negative. By using a condom correctly and consistently, your risk can be significantly reduced, but it will not be completely eliminated. Another way is to wash your genitals after sex and avoid any drug or alcohol use to avoid risky behaviors you may engage in. Who should be tested? Anyone currently diagnosed with an STI or HIV should be tested. If you are a man who has sex with men or have partners who test positive for syphilis, you will need to be tested. If you are pregnant, you should be screened at your first prenatal visit, then at the end of your third trimester and before delivery, to prevent congenital syphilis. Transmission – This STI is transmitted through microscopic abrasions in subcutaneous tissue. Transm... middle of paper ...... have sexual contact. The law requires that any sexual partner be informed of the STI. Appropriate follow-up care is necessary every month so that treatment can be administered again if necessary. It is recommended that anyone with a history of STIs undergo long-term follow-up because if you have had syphilis before, it does not mean that it will not recur in the future. 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. Fitness and total well-being. Flight. 6E. Glenview: Pearson, 2013. Print. (PDJ 376)CDC. “Syphilis – CDC Fact Sheet.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, February 11, 2013. Web. November 13, 2013. (CDC, website)