Ottawa: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are rising at an alarming rate in Canada, according to the latest report by the Chief Public Health Officer. Over the past decade, the number of syphilis cases has increased more than fourfold. The surge in congenital syphilis—where the infection is transmitted to unborn babies and newborns—is causing infant deaths and severe health complications, placing a significant strain on Canada’s healthcare sector.
In addition to syphilis, infections such as gonorrhea and chlamydia are also spreading rapidly across the country. Social stigma and barriers to testing are major factors contributing to delayed diagnoses. Furthermore, the widespread use of dating apps, a decline in condom use, and disruptions to routine testing during the pandemic have accelerated the spread of these infections. Rising antibiotic resistance against gonorrhea is further complicating treatment efforts.
Health experts emphasize the need to promote local rapid testing to curb infections that often spread asymptomatically. The report highlights that effectively countering the spread of STIs, including syphilis, will require creating a judgment-free medical environment and implementing stronger public health interventions.
