Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that is becoming more common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were approximately 130,000 cases of syphilis reported in the United States in 2020 alone. While the primary mode of transmission for syphilis is sexual contact, some people may wonder if it is possible to contract syphilis without engaging in sexual activity. This article explores the question of whether it is possible to get syphilis non sexually, and what you need to know about the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment of the infection.
What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It is usually spread through sexual contact with someone who has the infection. Syphilis can affect your whole body, including your brain, heart, and other organs. There are four stages of syphilis:
- Primary syphilis
- Secondary syphilis
- Latent syphilis
- Tertiary syphilis
Primary Syphilis
Primary syphilis is the first stage of syphilis. Symptoms of primary syphilis can include:
- A small, painless sore (called a chancre) in the genital area, anus, or mouth
- Swollen lymph nodes
The chancre can last for several weeks and heals on its own, even without treatment.
Secondary Syphilis
Secondary syphilis is the second stage of syphilis. Symptoms of secondary syphilis can include:
- A rash on your palms or soles of your feet
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Headaches
These symptoms may go away on their own, but if not treated, syphilis can progress to the next stages.
Latent Syphilis
Latent syphilis is when the infection is in your body without causing any symptoms. This is the hidden stage of syphilis, and it can last for years. Latent syphilis can be divided into early and late stages. During the early stage, you may still test positive for syphilis even if you have no symptoms. During the late stage, the infection can damage your organs.
Tertiary Syphilis
Tertiary syphilis is the final stage of syphilis. At this stage, the infection damages your brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints. Treatment can still help reduce the damage caused by the infection, but some of the damage may be permanent.
How is Syphilis Spread?
Syphilis can be spread through sexual contact, including anal, vaginal, and oral sex. The infection can also be spread from a mother to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth. In addition, it is possible to contract syphilis through non-sexual contact with an infected person’s open sore, such as from kissing or sharing towels, clothing, or other personal items. However, this is relatively rare.
Can You Get Syphilis Non Sexually?
While sexual contact is the most common way to contract syphilis, it is possible to get the infection non-sexually if you come into contact with an infected person’s open sore. This can occur through sharing needles, personal items or occupational exposure in healthcare workers. However, non-sexual transmission of syphilis is rare, and most cases of syphilis are still transmitted through sexual contact.
Who is at Risk for Syphilis?
Anyone who is sexually active is at risk of contracting syphilis. However, some people are at higher risk than others. You may be at higher risk if:
- You have sex with multiple partners
- You have sex with someone who has syphilis
- You have sex with someone who has other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- You have unprotected sex
- You have a compromised immune system
What are the Symptoms of Syphilis?
Syphilis can cause a range of symptoms, depending on the stage of the infection. However, not everyone who has syphilis will experience symptoms. If you do experience symptoms, they may include:
- A painless sore (chancre)
- A rash on your palms or soles of your feet
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Headaches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fatigue
How is Syphilis Diagnosed?
If you think you may have syphilis, it is important to see a healthcare provider for testing. Your healthcare provider can conduct a blood test or a sample of your fluid from your sore or from your spinal fluid (in more rare cases) to detect the presence of syphilis.
How Is Syphilis Treated?
Syphilis is a treatable infection. The treatment depends on the stage of the infection. If detected early, syphilis can be cured with antibiotics. The antibiotics can be administered as an injection or taken orally. If the infection has progressed to a later stage, more intensive treatment may be necessary, in severe cases hospitalization may be required. It is important to complete the treatment as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully remediated.
Can Syphilis Be Prevented?
Syphilis can be prevented by practicing safe sex measures, such as using a condom, reducing the number of sexual partners, and avoiding sex with someone who has syphilis or other sexually transmitted infections. Also, avoid sharing personal items or needles with an infected person. If you are sexually active, getting tested for syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections at least annually is also recommended.
Conclusion
While sexual contact is the most common way people contract syphilis, this bacterial infection can be contracted non-sexually in rare cases. Syphilis can be a serious illness and cause long term damage to your body. Recognizing the signs and symptoms and promptly getting tested and treated can reduce the risk of complications. Employing preventive measures, including practicing safe sex measures and getting tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections, will greatly reduce your risks of contracting the infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What should I do if I think I have syphilis?
A: It is important to see a healthcare provider for testing and treatment if you think you may have syphilis. - Q: Is syphilis curable?
A: Yes, syphilis is treatable with antibiotics. If detected early, it can be cured with treatment. - Q: Can I get syphilis from kissing someone with the infection?
A: It is possible to contract syphilis through non-sexual contact with an infected person’s open sore, such as from kissing, but this is relatively rare. - Q: Can I get syphilis from a toilet seat or pool?
A: No, syphilis cannot be contracted from using a public toilet or swimming pool.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Syphilis FAQs. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/syphilis/stdfact-syphilis-detailed.htm
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Syphilis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/syphilis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351756