The city of Houston is currently facing a significant syphilis outbreak, as health officials have reported a notable increase in cases, particularly among pregnant women. The Houston Health Department recently announced the outbreak and revealed a significant rise in congenital syphilis in both Houston and Harris County. According to health experts, syphilis cases have increased from 1,845 in 2019 to 2,905 in 2022, representing a rise of approximately 57 percent. Among women, the reported cases have risen by 128 percent, with authorities attributing this increase to the transmission of the bacterial infection from pregnant women to their infants. This concerning trend highlights the need for increased awareness and preventive measures to address the syphilis outbreak in Houston.
In response to the rapidly escalating syphilis outbreak, the Houston Health Department is taking swift and proactive measures to address the situation promptly. To combat the rise in cases, the department has decided to waive clinical fees for individuals seeking syphilis testing. This move aims to encourage more people to get tested and receive the necessary treatment without worrying about a potential financial barrier. Additionally, the city intends to expand the utilization of its HIV/STD mobile clinic, which will provide increased accessibility to testing and treatment services. Collaborating with community leaders, the Houston Health Department will work towards raising awareness about syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases