In a recent memo, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has issued a public health alert following the occurrence of five stillbirths or neonatal deaths in babies with congenital syphilis between January 1 and September 1. The alert aims to raise awareness and prevent further cases of this preventable disease.

According to NCDHHS, the state has witnessed a staggering 547% increase in reported syphilis cases among women since 2012, along with a corresponding rise in congenital syphilis infections. In 2012, there was only one reported case of congenital syphilis, while in 2022, the number surged to 57 cases. It is worth noting that this increase mirrors a nationwide trend.

Congenital syphilis, if left untreated during pregnancy, can lead to devastating outcomes such as miscarriages, stillbirths, and neonatal deaths. Furthermore, affected babies might face long-term health effects including bone damage, severe anemia, enlarged liver and spleen, jaundice, nerve problems causing blindness or deafness, meningitis, or skin rashes.

A recent review of congenital syphilis cases in North Carolina has highlighted areas of concern. Firstly, it revealed that some pregnant women had little to no prenatal care. Secondly, there were missed opportunities to test women during pregnancy, which is a requirement under North Carolina's Public Health law. Finally, there were instances of inadequate or delayed treatment of maternal syphilis infections.

To combat this concerning trend, NCDHHS emphasizes the importance of regular and timely screenings for all pregnant women. It is essential to note that sexually transmitted infections can still be present even without current symptoms or a recent exposure. In fact, 86% of pregnant women diagnosed with syphilis in North Carolina in 2022 had no symptoms at the time of diagnosis. Relying solely on symptom-based testing would have resulted in missing these infections.

The NCDHHS and healthcare providers are working together to prevent congenital syphilis and reverse this alarming trend. By promoting awareness, improving access to prenatal care, implementing regular screenings, and ensuring timely treatment, it is hoped that the number of cases can be significantly reduced, safeguarding the health and well-being of both mothers and their newborns.

It is vital for all pregnant women in North Carolina to prioritize their prenatal care and work closely with their healthcare providers to ensure the best possible outcomes for themselves and their babies.