Syphilis rates are continuing to rise in the region, according to the Northwestern Health Unit.
In a Wednesday news release, the health unit said there were 138 confirmed cases in 2022, representing a 21 per cent increase from the previous year.
Half of those cases were found in the Sioux Lookout Health Hub region, with another 42 per cent in the Kenora Health Hub region.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection primarily spread through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
“Consistent use of barrier methods for protection such as condoms and dental dams is very important to prevent the spread of syphilis,” said Northwestern Health Unit medical officer of health Dr. Kit Young Hoon in a statement.
Young Hoon also encourages anyone at risk to get tested. People can reach out to their healthcare provider or the health unit's sexual health clinics for testing.
The health unit said syphilis can also spread from a pregnant woman to a fetus during pregnancy. It is recommended that pregnant women get tested three times during pregnancy, or as recommended by their healthcare provider.
