It’s been around since at least the 1500’s and all but
disappeared in the latter part of the twentieth century, but syphilis is making a
comeback right here in Alberta.
“What’s tricky about this infection is
that it heals on its own and people think they are alright, but they’re
not,” said Dr. Richard Musto of Alberta Health Services.
Ads appearing in various Calgary publications are warning
readers about the sexually transmitted disease.
“A nasty scratch or itch,
probably get checked,” said Aids Calgary’s Susan Cress, adding the ads were strategically rolled out around Stampede time because they want
people to get tested.
In the first quarter of 2009 Alberta had 75 confirmed
cases of syphilis, putting the province on track to beat last year’s 218 cases, and a huge spike from only 14 in 2002.
For more information Aids Calgary Awareness Association
encourages people to check out lookwhatsback.com.
Alberta Health and Wellness has its own website
dontyougetit.ca
