Sexually active gay and bisexual men in the Hamilton area are being urged to be tested for syphilis, after a surge in cases. There have been approximately twice as many diagnoses as last year of the STI, which can cause long-term complications if not treated promptly. The New Zealand AIDS Foundation says if a person has syphilis, they also become more vulnerable and more likely to get HIV, so it is vital to continue to use condoms and to get tested. It’s joining with Hamilton Sexual Health in urging sexually active gay and bisexual men In the Hamilton area to get tested. The NZAF says syphilis can be contracted by direct contact with syphilis sores during anal, vaginal or oral sex. The sores may be on the penis, anus, in the rectum, on the lips or in the mouth. The first sign is a painless syphilis sore but this can easily be confused for an ingrown hair, zipper cut, or another seemingly harmless bump, which can easily go unnoticed. The sore lasts three to six weeks and heals regardless of whether or not you receive treatment. The non-itchy body rash that develops next can show up on the palms of your hands, soles of your feet, all over your body or in just a few places. Even if you have very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, you can still be infected and therefore infect others. Free testing is available at Hamilton Sexual Health or NZAF Health Services. You can also request a syphilis test from your GP.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 18th November 2014 - 1:06pm