Syphilis Cases Rise Among California Women

Cases of syphilis in women, pregnant women and newborns are on the rise in California, according to a new report released by the State Department of Health.

CDPH director and state health officer Dr. Karen Smith is particularly concerned about the increase in congenital syphilis, which is transmitted from an infected mother to her child in utero.

"It is a needless tragedy that can be prevented with good prenatal care and timely and effective treatment," Smith said in a statement.

Reported early syphilis cases among women are up more than 50 percent from 2012 to 2014, while congenital cases tripled during the same time period.

The CDPH offers information about syphilis, including outreach for prenatal care, on the organization's website.

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