The Ministry of Health and Wellness is once again informing the public that cases of syphilis are increasing in Barbados and is advising all adults to take practical steps to protect their health through safer sexual practices, regular testing and prompt treatment.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that is both preventable and curable, but many people may not realise they are infected as symptoms can be mild or absent in the early stages.

National surveillance data indicate that there were 156 new cases of syphilis in 2025 compared with 107 in 2024, representing an increase of approximately 46 percent. The majority of new syphilis cases occurred in the 20-29 age group in 2024 (40.2%) and 2025 (37.8%). Males accounted for 61.0% of the cases in this age group in 2025 and 72.1% in 2024.

Rates of testing for syphilis have also increased with the Best dos Santos Public Health Laboratory recording 14, 835 tests in 2025, compared with 12, 731 tests in 2024. In addition to this, syphilis positivity rates have ranged from 2.1 per cent to 4.1 per cent over the past five years, with an average positivity rate of 2.9 per cent.

Syphilis can cause a painless sore at the genitals, anus, or mouth, or a rash later on, often on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet. Other symptoms may include swollen glands or lymph nodes, fever, fatigue, sore throat, or body aches. These signs are often mild, can come and go, or may be mistaken for other conditions. Even if sores or rashes heal on their own, the infection remains and can progress if not treated.

If syphilis is not treated, it can cause serious irreversible long-term health problems, including damage to the brain, heart, and other organs. In pregnancy, untreated syphilis can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious illness in newborns. These outcomes can be prevented through early testing and prompt treatment.

Persons who are sexually active are encouraged to get tested for syphilis, especially if they have new or multiple partners. Testing is simple and available through public and private health services. Using condoms correctly and consistently remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections.

A positive test result should be followed up with immediate treatment and recent sexual partners should be informed. Attending antenatal care early in pregnancy allows early testing and treatment, if necessary, to ensure a healthy baby. Couples are reminded that protecting sexual health is also a shared responsibility.

The Ministry will continue to monitor trends in sexually transmitted infections and work with healthcare providers, community partners, and the public to strengthen prevention, testing, treatment, and education efforts across Barbados.

Ministry of Health and Wellness