Emerging Syphilis Trends in Mississippi, 2002-2007

Objectives – This study aimed to identify trends in syphilis transmission in Mississippi during 2002-2007.

Methods – Syphilis cases are reported to the Mississippi State Department of Health and are maintained in the Sexually Transmitted Disease Management Information System (STD*MIS). Analysis of 2002-2007 data illustrates positive morbidity reported during this period. Rates of Primary & Secondary syphilis (P&S) calculated using population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Results – From 2002-2007, there was a 175% increase in P&S syphilis cases, from 48 to 132 (1.7 to 4.5 cases per 100,000). The increase was more evident among males (1.2-6.9 per 100,000) when compared to females (2.1-2.3 per 100, 000); African Americans (4.4-9.3 per 100,000) compared to whites (0.1-1.4 per 100,000); and among 30-44 year olds (2.7-39.3 per 100,000), followed by 15-29 year olds (4.1-36.7 per 100,000), and 45-49 year olds (0.8-23.8 per 100,000). In 2007, 24 counties reported higher case rates than the statewide case rate of 4.5 per 100,000. When we examined risk factors, 45.9% of males were men who have sex with men (MSM). Among MSM, 16 (35.6%) were known to be co-infected with HIV.

Conclusions – There is an undoubted increase in the number of syphilis cases reported during 2002-2007. There are major challenges for effective syphilis elimination interventions, including ensuring all partners are notified, tested, and treated and obtaining accurate information about partner gender and risk factors.