Syphilis is a bacterial infection usually spread by sexual contact. The disease starts as a painless sore — typically on your genitals, rectum or mouth. Syphilis spreads from person to person via skin or mucous membrane contact with these sores. After the initial infection, the syphilis bacteria can lie dormant in your body for decades before becoming active again. Early syphilis can be cured, sometimes with a single injection of penicillin. Without treatment, syphilis can severely damage your heart, brain or other organs, and can be life-threatening, or be passed from mother to an unborn child.

This indicator shows syphilis cases per 100,000 people within the health district. 

Local screening offices (doctors), Planned Parenthood and Utah Department of Health. 

To reduce the risk of getting infected with syphilis, use a condom during sex. Condoms used properly during every sexual encounter reduce but don't eliminate the risk of infection. Limit the number of sexual partners, or consider practicing abstinence. Those that think they are infected should avoid sexual contact and see a doctor. If someone tests positive, their partner should also get treatment. Get retested after three months, even if both partners appear infection free.