An outbreak of early syphilis: cases from North Manchester General Hospital.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the features of an outbreak of early syphilis in North Manchester.


METHODS
Retrospective KC60 and case note review.


RESULTS
In a 25 month period, 10 cases of primary, 22 of secondary, and nine cases of early latent syphilis were diagnosed. 39 were homosexual or bisexual men, 20 being co-infected with HIV. Most infections were acquired locally and in 19/41 cases oral sex was the only risk factor. High rates of unprotected anal sex were reported among the homosexual men and co-infection with other STIs was common.


CONCLUSIONS
This outbreak will facilitate the spread of HIV in the homosexual male population. Unsafe sexual practice is common and the perception that oral sex is "safe" needs revisiting. Delays in accessing GUM clinic appointments must be addressed as part of the control strategy.
Lacey
H B
HB
Department of Genitourinary Medicine, North Manchester General Hospital, UK.
Higgins
S P
SP
Graham
D
D
D000328:Adult; D004196:Disease Outbreaks / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000453:epidemiology; D006769:Hospitals, General / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D013587:Syphilis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000635:transmission; D006113:United Kingdom / Q000453:epidemiology