Programs Cid Dcdc Pages Syphilis - CDPH

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES CONTROL BRANCH

Get STI testing today!

Most STIs are easy to treat, and testing is fast and easy.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Untreated infection can lead to long-term health problems, including brain disease. Syphilis increases both transmission and acquisition of HIV. Tests and treatment are available.

Information on congenital syphilis.

Resources for Providers

California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Updates Syphilis Screening Recommendations
CDC Clinical Guidelines on the Use of Doxycycline Postexposure Prophylaxis for Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention, United States, 2024
Considerations for the Implementation of Point of Care Tests for Syphilis (PDF) (hhs.gov)
Clinical Interpretation of Syphilis Screening Algorithms (PDF)(californiaptc.com)
*NEW* CDPH Dear Colleague Letter - Powdered Benzathine Benzylpenicillin (Extencilline®) for the Treatment of Syphilis (1/26/24) (PDF)
Pregnancy and Substance Use: A Harm Reduction Toolkit
*NEW* CDPH Dear Colleague Letter - Special Considerations for the Treatment of Syphilis Using Alternative Therapies in Non-pregnant Persons (9/12/23) (PDF)
Health Advisory: Bicillin® L-A (Benzathine Penicillin G) Shortage
Syphilis Treatment Intervals in Non-Pregnant Patients: A Clinical Resource for Providers (PDF)
CDPH Dear Colleague Letter - Opt-Out ED Screening for HIV, HCV, and Syphilis (3/28/22) (PDF)
CDPH Dear Colleague Letter - Call to Expand HIV and Syphilis Testing for Pregnant Women (11/16/21) (PDF)
Health Alert: Increasing Cases of Congenital Syphilis and Syphilis Among Females in Northern California (Oct. 2021) (PDF)
Screening for Syphilis in Emergency Departments Resource Guide (PDF)
Rapid Syphilis Testing Fact Sheet & FAQs (PDF)
Syphilis Treatment Guidelines, 2021 (CDC)
Neurosyphilis Guide (PDF)
Use of Treponemal Immunoassays for the Screening and Diagnosis of Syphilis: Guidance for Medical Providers and Laboratories in California (PDF)**

**Please note, the STI treatment guidelines referenced in this document are out of date. Please refer to the 2021 STI Treatment guidelines for the current treatment regimens.

Resources for Local Health Jurisdictions