The introduction of the antibiotic, Penicillin in the mid-twentieth century effectively treated Syphilis. This is still the first-line treatment for Syphilis.
The first reported outbreaks of Syphilis were reported in Europe in 1495 and spread rapidly to other continents, resulting in a pandemic strain of syphilis.
According to recent scientific research at the University of Zurich, a newer pandemic cluster (called SS14-Ω) emerged after the introduction of antibiotics in the mid-20th century.
Current Syphilis infections are predominantly from this newer cluster.
Why is this important?
Syphilis infections (originating from SS14Ω) are very likely to be resistant to azithromycin, (a second-line antibiotic treatment for Syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases).
Much has been written in the news recently about drug-resistant infections, such as Gonorrhoea.
The drug resistance with Syphilis highlights the importance of correct choice of antibiotics and proper follow-up to ensure that treatment is effective. Incorrect antibiotic use will lead to incomplete cure, recurrence of infection and potential spread of Syphilis to other people.
If you have Syphilis, it can be treated effectively with antibiotics.