Alberta’s Syphilis Outbreak Response Shows Progress
Alberta is seeing positive results in its fight against a syphilis outbreak that began several years ago. Data from Alberta Health suggests the number of new syphilis cases is declining, offering hope and highlighting the effectiveness of the province’s response efforts.
Syphilis Cases on the Decline
In 2019, Alberta declared a syphilis outbreak after witnessing infection rates not seen since the 1940s. However, last year, Alberta Health reported 2,723 new cases, a decrease from 3,326 the previous year. While still significantly higher than the 140 cases recorded in 2014, before the outbreak, this 18% decline is a promising sign.
“I am of the opinion that the interventions that have been put in place are starting to now have an impact,” said infectious disease specialist Dr. Ameeta Singh. “The most important of those interventions has been the introduction of point-of-care testing for syphilis.”
Point-of-Care Testing: A Key Intervention
This specialized device, now approved by Health Canada, allows for rapid testing and treatment. Expanded to acute care facilities and community settings in Alberta by the end of 2022, more than 4,000 of these tests have been conducted. Dr. Singh believes that increased access to rapid testing and treatment is a major contributor to the decline in reported infections.
“Of course, that’s not the only intervention that’s been put in place. A number of other things have happened concurrently,” said Dr. Singh.
Addressing Disparities and Raising Awareness
Alberta Health has also invested in funding community organizations to raise awareness about syphilis among high-risk populations and groups disproportionately affected by the outbreak. This includes targeted outreach programs to rural, remote, and Indigenous communities, which have historically faced challenges accessing healthcare.
“Alberta’s government also provides $2 million to organizations that target populations and geographic areas experiencing higher rates of infectious syphilis or congenital syphilis, which includes mobile STBBI (sexually transmitted and blood borne infection) testing, treatment, and education projects in the North Zone,” a spokesperson for Alberta Health stated.
Looking Ahead
Researchers are continuing to evaluate the impact of various interventions on the declining syphilis numbers. They anticipate a more comprehensive understanding of the contributing factors in the months ahead.