Increase in syphilis cases prompts Colorado public health order

An alarming spike in syphilis cases in Colorado has led to a statewide public health order focusing on treating the disease among pregnant women and babies. Governor Jared Polis announced that the state would be implementing more measures to combat congenital syphilis, which has been on the rise over the past several years.

The main goal of the initiative is to assist pregnant women and their babies in receiving testing and treatment. Governor Polis emphasized that syphilis is a treatable disease for adults, usually responding well to a course of penicillin. However, the real danger lies in newborns born to mothers with syphilis, as the fatality rate for these babies is significant.

According to the state, citing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 40 percent of babies with untreated congenital syphilis may be stillborn or die from the infection. Governor Polis noted that the number of infections had increased sevenfold in the last five years, with 1,084 cases in 2018 and 3,266 cases in 2023.

State Epidemiologist Rachel Herlihy stated that the consistent rise in cases across the state indicates a statewide congenital syphilis epidemic. To address the issue, the state will collaborate with the Department of Corrections, Department of Public Health and Environment, and the Department of Public Safety to reduce cases in correctional facilities.

Additionally, the state will ensure that syphilis testing is covered without co-pays for most insured Coloradans, including those with Medicaid. The state plans to increase education on the importance of testing for syphilis and its treatment because it is possible to have the disease without knowing it.