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The great pretender returns to Dublin, Ireland
S Hopkins1, F Lyons, F Mulcahy
1Department of Genitourinary Medicine, St James's Hospital, James's Street, Dublin 8, Ireland. fmulcahy@stjames.ie
Sexually Transmitted Infections
|October 6, 2001
Summary
Dublin experienced a syphilis outbreak with a significant case increase over 18 months, primarily affecting men who have sex with men and showing high rates of HIV co-infection.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- An increase in syphilis cases was observed in Dublin over 18 months.
- This outbreak occurred against a backdrop of previously stable, low syphilis incidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics of a recent syphilis outbreak in Dublin.
- To identify key demographic and behavioral factors associated with the outbreak.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 181 syphilis cases identified during the outbreak period.
- Review of patient demographics, co-infections (particularly HIV), and high-risk behaviors.
- Investigation of sexual networks and outreach testing strategies.
Main Results:
- 181 cases of syphilis were identified, with 121 classified as early syphilis.
- The majority of cases (92%) were among men who have sex with men.
- A high rate of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) co-infection was noted, with 16 patients diagnosed with early syphilis while attending HIV clinics and 9 co-diagnosed with HIV and early syphilis.
- High-risk sexual behaviors and co-infections with other sexually transmitted infections were common.
Conclusions:
- An education and outreach campaign, including on-site testing, successfully identified additional cases.
- Emphasis on safer sex practices is crucial, especially within the HIV-positive population.
- Continued exploration of innovative strategies is necessary to control the outbreak.