Implications of high prevalence of recreational drug use among cases of infectious syphilis: insights from state-wide surveillance data, South Australia, July 2022 – September 2023

These data demonstrate a high prevalence of IDU and non-IDU amongst syphilis cases diagnosed outside sexual health services. Females and heterosexuals report drug use more frequently than men who have sex with men (MSM). In response, the correctional and drug and alcohol sectors have been engaged to increase routine screening and primary care providers alerted to recreational drug use as a risk factor for syphilis.