Malta’s First In Europe For Having The Highest Rate Of Syphilis
According to a new report, Malta had the highest rate of syphilis infections in the EU in both 2021 and 2022.
With the average rate of 8.5 cases per 100,000 people across 30 countries, Malta registered a rate of 24.4.
The 127 cases confirmed in 2022 is less than the 166 registered in 2021. Which gives us some hope, thinking that some awareness is being spread across the islands.
But what is Syphilis?
Syphilis is an infection caused by bacteria. Most often, it spreads through sexual contact. The disease starts as a sore that’s often painless and typically appears on the genitals, rectum or mouth.
The second highest was recorded in Luxembourg with 23.4 and then by Ireland with 16.6. Croatia on the other hand, recorded only 48 cases with a rate of 1.2.
In November 2023, Malta’s sexually transmitted diseases increased by 198.56%.
The report then showed that the highest STD was Chlamydia, followed by Gonorrhoea and then Syphilis.
Since then, there has been no update of Malta’s Sexual Health Policy or any substantial development for a new GU clinic.
Do you think Malta does enough to combat this issue?