Causative organism
Treponema pallidum (a long corkscrew bacteria)
Mode of spread
Sexual contact with the infected person
Incubation period
Symptoms of the disease occur in about 10-90 days after contraction, but generally
noticed in 3-4 weeks after getting infected with the bacteria.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of syphilis occur in stages. The common symptoms of syphilis include.
(i) Fever, and sores on the skin, in the throat and urinogenital areas especially
vagina or penis, anus, rectum and mouth. Sores are firm, round and often
painless.
(ii) Rashes on hands, feet and palms.
(iii) White patches in the mouth.
(iv) Acne-like warts in the groin area.
(v) Hair fall in patches from infected areas.
(vi) The last three symptoms can be very serious. They often become internal and
affect organs like brain, nerves, liver, eyes, blood vessels, bones and joints,
which show up after about 10 years of getting the infection. It can lead to
paralysis, blindness, dementia and sterility.
Prevention and cure:
(i) Having sexual intimacy with only one person.
(ii) Avoiding prostitution and homosexuality.
(iii) Practicing abstinence, and use condoms.
(iv) Taking appropriate medical treatment, and maintaing personal hygience.
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