An outbreak of early syphilis: cases from North Manchester General Hospital

Objectives: To describe the features of an outbreak of early syphilis in No rth Manchester. Methods: Retrospective KC60 and case note review. Results: In a 25 month period, 10 cases of primary, 22 of secondary, and ni ne cases of early latent syphilis were diagnosed. 39 were homosexual or bis exual men, 20 being co-infected with HIV. Most infections were acquired loc ally and in 19/41 cases oral sex was the only risk factor. High rates of un protected anal sex were reported among the homosexual men and co-infection with other STIs was common. Conclusion: This outbreak will facilitate the spread of HIV in the homosexu al male population. Unsafe sexual practice is common and the perception tha t oral sex is "safe" needs revisiting. Delays in accessing GUM clinic appoi ntments must be addressed as part of the control strategy.