Congenital Syphilis Cases Set New Record in Japan

According to the institute, Tokyo reported the highest number of syphilis cases at 3,244, followed by Osaka with 1,760 cases, Fukuoka with 829 cases, Aichi with 751 cases, and Hokkaido with 607 cases.

While some attribute the spread of the disease to social media-based sexual encounters, no definitive cause has been identified yet. The disease mainly spreads through sexual contact, with symptoms including sores on the genitals or mouth, followed by a body rash. Early antibiotic treatment is effective in curing the disease, but if left untreated, it can have serious consequences, including intellectual, visual, or hearing disabilities for newborns.

The Tokyo metropolitan government is urging anyone with symptoms to seek medical attention and is emphasizing the importance of proper condom use to reduce the risk of contracting syphilis. It also advises pregnant women to consult with their doctors if they have any concerns, as congenital syphilis can lead to stillbirths and premature births, as well as disabilities in children.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases in Japan has recently released data showing a significant increase in congenital syphilis cases, reaching a new annual record high of 32 cases in 2023, surpassing the previous record set in 2019. In addition, the total number of syphilis cases in the country for 2023 has exceeded the previous year's count. The spread of the disease is attributed to sexual contact, with symptoms including genital and oral sores, and a rash. Early antibiotic treatment is effective, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious consequences, especially for newborns. The Tokyo metropolitan government has issued recommendations for seeking medical attention for symptoms and emphasizes the importance of proper condom use to reduce the risk of syphilis. It also advises pregnant women to consult with their doctors, as congenital syphilis can lead to stillbirths, premature births, and disabilities in children.