(File photo/paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Sexually transmitted infection

Syphillis outbreak declared for Sask. First Nations

Jul 19, 2019 | 5:00 PM

People living on Saskatchewan’s First Nations are being encouraged to be extra vigilant, following a recent spike in syphilis cases.

To reduce the spread of syphilis and other sexually transmitted and blood borne infections, the Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority (NITHA) and Indigenous Services Canada have declared a syphilis outbreak for Saskatchewan First Nations communities. NITHA’s Medical Health Officer Dr. Nnamdi Ndubuka said syphilis is treatable.

“I would like people to know they should reduce their risk, particularly limiting the number of sexual partners, using protection and abstaining from sex if possible then get tested and know their status,” he said.

NITHA, which is responsible for 33 Northern Saskatchewan First Nation communities, has seen a 214 per cent increase in syphilis cases this year over last year. Ndubuka said their action plan includes public awareness, and the development of an outbreak response team which will ensure the informational packages are distributed to NITHA’s member communities.

“We are also increasing screening programs for outreach programs within the northern communities and we are also supporting communities by providing supplies for harm reduction,” he said.

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Symptoms for syphilis include sores in the mouth, rashes on the hands or feet, swollen glands and even hair loss. Ndubuka said pregnant women also need to be very careful, adding there is a high risk of transmitting syphilis from an infected mother to the unborn child.

“Women who are at high risk of getting [a] sexually transmitted infection should be tested at first trimester, should get tested again at 28 to 32 weeks, and then at delivery,” Ndubuka said.

Shirley Woods is the health director for Prince Albert Grand Council. She acknowledged they have seen a spike in syphilis cases, and she reiterated the importance for people to be tested.

“There’s certain people who would be at higher risk but anybody who is sexually active would be at risk and should be tested,” she said

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nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell