Kiwi babies are dying from syphilis passed on from their mothers.
- Ministry of Health warns of rise in syphilis cases
- Cuts to sexual health treatment as syphilis spreads
Since 2017, there have been four cases of syphilis being passed onto babies from their mothers, as well as one probable case, NZME reports. Two of last year's cases were stillbirths.
The Ministry of Health is currently investigating two possible further cases and has set up a group to tackle the issue.
All pregnant women are meant to undergo a blood test to check for the infection early in their term. If found early, syphilis can be treated with antibiotics.
Waikato DHB Hamilton Sexual Health clinic director Dr Jane Morgan told NZME the increase in these cases is a clear message our healthcare system is failing.
"The World Health Organisation has given Cuba an award for eliminating congenital syphilis. We are reintroducing it. It's just heart-breaking that we are seeing it. It is hard to comprehend.
"We know that LMCs (lead maternity carers) are talking about how short staffed they are, and that midwives are leaving that profession. What is happening about people's access to primary care... why aren't women being screened?"
The Ministry of Health reported one stillbirth due to congenital syphilis in 2016, and one in 2011-2012. Records couldn't be checked prior to 2011.
There were 495 confirmed cases of syphilis last year - more than double the number from 2015.
Newshub.
