If left untreated, the symptoms will disappear, but the infection stays in the body and can cause damage to the brain, heart, and nervous system, and even death. That’s why it’s so important to get tested if you’re sexually active – and to use condoms.

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Syphilis is an STD that’s caused by a bacterium. According to CDC, over 55,000 people will get infected with the disease. A person gets syphilis by coming into direct contact with a person with a syphilis sore. Left untreated, syphilis can cause long-term complications and, in some cases, death.

How do I know if I have it?

The first sign of a syphilis infection is one or more small, painless sores on your body. They are most often found on your genitals (penis or vagina), anus or mouth. Left untreated, syphilis may also appear as a rash on your body – especially on the palms of your hand or the soles of your feet.

Can it be cured or treated?

In its early stages, syphilis can be treated with appropriate antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. It’s important to know that the symptoms of syphilis will go away with or without treatment; however, the infection will remain in your body – unless it’s treated.

Wearing a latex condom is one of the best ways to prevent syphilis infection; however, any area not covered by a condom that comes into contact with a syphilis sore is subject to infection.

For more information about syphilis and its symptoms, read the CDC post here: https://www.cdc.gov/std/syphilis/STDFact-Syphilis.htm.

Need to get tested? Find a Mississippi health center near you: https://factnotfictionms.com/clinics.

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