Delaware County Officials Sounding Alarm After Highest Number Of Early Syphilis Cases Reported In 2 Decades

By Alecia Reid, CBS Philadelphia

October 10, 2021

Delaware County officials are sounding the alarm after seeing the highest number of early syphilis cases reported in the past two decades. They’re concerned because the rise is not just affecting one demographic – it’s an equal opportunity problem.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health says the county is on track to exceed a 104% increase in syphilis infections from 2020. And rising cases are being seen in all populations around the county.

“Individuals under the age of 30 account for the higher percentage of syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia,” Delaware County medical advisor Lisa O’Mahony said.

CBS Local Digital Media personalizes the global reach of CBS-owned and operated television and radio stations with a local perspective.