A CLUSTER OF SYPHILIS-ASSOCIATED FETAL DEATHS

Syphilis should not be forgotten in the era of HIV. It continues to ha ve an adverse effect on pregnancy outcomes, especially in some Aborigi nal communities. A cluster of five syphilis-associated foetal deaths i s described. To effectively address sexually transmitted diseases, Abo riginal health workers have been employed to promote a community-based approach to both primary and secondary prevention. The importance of antenatal care, with an appropriate and more intensive program for syp hilis screening, is discussed.