Health officials in Salt Lake County have reported a significant 800 percent rise in syphilis cases among women, a development described as “alarming.”

Lynn Beltran, the Epidemiology Supervisor for the Salt Lake County Health Department, noted a shift in the demographics of syphilis cases, with an increasing number of women, particularly those of childbearing age, being affected. Previously, the county would typically record one to three female syphilis cases annually, but last year, this number jumped to nearly 30.

The increase in syphilis cases is not limited to women; men are also experiencing a rise in infections. Last year, the total number of syphilis cases in the county was 227, and this year, the number has already surpassed 300, with projections suggesting it might reach 400 by year-end.

From 2018 to 2022, there was an 800 percent increase in syphilis cases among women in Salt Lake County. Of these cases, 89 percent were among women aged 15-44.

Looking at the broader population in Salt Lake County, not just women, there has been a 65 percent overall increase in syphilis cases from 2018 to 2022.

The specific number of cases in Utah’s most populous county was not disclosed by officials.

The rising syphilis rates among women of childbearing age are particularly concerning due to the increased risk of newborn syphilis in the community. Syphilis during pregnancy can result in stillbirth, miscarriage, or neonatal death. Infants who survive but do not receive proper treatment may suffer long-term health issues, including blindness and deafness.

Testing is crucial for the effective treatment of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection that responds well to antibiotics if treated early. However, the disease becomes more dangerous the longer it goes untreated.