Why is it in the news?
The World Health Organization certified Denmark for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis.
The development highlights global efforts to control sexually transmitted infections.
Category: S&T
Important Points:
● Syphilis is a preventable and curable sexually transmitted infection (STI).
● It is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.
● The disease usually begins with a painless sore on genitals, rectum or mouth.
● Infection spreads mainly through sexual contact with infected sores or rashes.
● It can also be transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth.
● The disease progresses in stages if untreated.
● Without treatment it can damage organs such as the heart and brain.
● Untreated maternal infection may lead to adverse birth outcomes in 50–80% of cases.
● Early-stage infection is easily curable with antibiotics such as penicillin.