Sciensano compiles two reports each year documenting the evolution of STDs in Belgium. The reports are based on data-collection networks.
Syphilis
Syphilis
The use of a condom is essential to protect yourself and your partners against STDs. If you have any concerns, you should have an STD screening test. In the event of an infection, follow the treatment correctly and inform your sexual partners.
What is syphilis?
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.
It particularly affects men who have sex with men (MSM) aged between 32 and 44.
In Belgium the number of cases has been increasing since the 90s (24% each year).
Syphilis does not generate immunity. An infected person who has been cured can become reinfected afterwards: 25% of cases of syphilis reported each year concern reinfections.