Syphilis spike in Butte

The number of syphilis cases reported locally in the first quarter of 2013 is equal to the annual average for the county, according to a May 20 press release from the Butte County Public Health Department.

Four cases have been reported, all involving young men who had sexual contact with other men. Though most prevalent among gay men, syphilis is increasing in heterosexual men and women, according to the release.

Investigation of the patients by Public Health Department nurses revealed the four afflicted individuals may have exposed 19 other men and women through sexual contact.

The department recommends at-risk individuals get tested at the Chico or Oroville clinic. Go to buttecounty.net/publichealth or call 1-877-STD-INFO to learn more.