Syphilisis a highly contagioussexually transmitted infection(STI) that is brought on by bacteria.
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When Is Syphilis Highly Contagious?
There arefour stages of a syphilis infection: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary.
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The sores last for roughly three to six weeks and heal with or without treatment.
The infection, however, is still ongoing even after the sores heal.
The other symptoms of syphilis previously mentioned may also develop during this stage.
Like the primary stage sores, these signs of infection will go away with or without treatment.
Without treatment, the infection will go into latency.
This latent stage can last for years without treatment.
It’s difficult to determine if a person has syphilis during this time because they are asymptomatic.
Tertiary
If left untreated, people with syphilis may go on to develop the tertiary stage symptoms.
This final and most dangerous stage of syphilis is marked by infection of other organ systems.
When Is Syphilis Most Contagious?
The most contagious stages of syphilis are primary, secondary, and early latency.
Oral, anal, or vaginal sexual intercourse is how most cases of syphilis are spread.
However, kissing is not a typical method of transmission.
How Long Does Syphilis Last After Treatment?
Syphilis is a curable infection that is treated usingantibiotics.
Can You Pass Along Syphilis During Treatment?
This results in difficulties with focus, memory, and thinking.
In more severe cases,dementia(loss of cognitive functioning) can be brought on by syphilis.
Syphilis Prevention
The best way to prevent contracting syphilis is through safer-sex practices.
This could include getting tested regularly and always using condoms properly.
Avoiding sexual intercourse with someone who has an active infection or any sores will also keep it from spreading.
The latent stage is marked by no symptoms at all.
Syphilis can be cured through the use of antibiotic treatments.
Catching syphilis early will help to avoid any long-term health issues that can occur if it is left untreated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes.
The most common nonsexual way to spread syphilis is from an infected mother to a fetus in the womb.
While it is rare, there have been cases of other types of nonsexual transmission of syphilis.
Organ donation, blood transfusions, and biting have all been documented as spreaders.
Yes, though it is incredibly rare.
Kissing is by no means a main method of transmission.
you might have syphilis for decades without knowing that you have it.
This is especially true ifwhen symptoms do ariseyou mistake them or brush them off.
Syphilis is a highly curable disease.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Sexually transmitted infection treatment guidelines, 2021: syphilis.
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