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Lusaka, Copperbelt, Eastern, Central and Southern provinces are recording the highest burden of syphilis cases in Zambia, according to Ministry of Health surveillance data.
The data also shows that sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including syphilis, are more prevalent among young people aged 15 to 25 years.
The figures were disclosed during the official launch of the Stop Syphilis Campaign and Condom Distribution Programming in Lusaka on Tuesday.
Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary, Dr. George Sinyangwe, said syphilis remains a serious public health concern in the country.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Health, I warmly welcome you all to this important meeting as we officially launch the Stop Syphilis campaign, a bold and necessary step in our collective fight to curb the escalating number of syphilis cases nationwide,” he said.
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Sinyangwe expressed concern over the rising number of syphilis cases among pregnant women, warning that the infection could result in miscarriage, stillbirth and congenital syphilis in newborns.
He emphasised that no child should begin life burdened by a disease the country has the power to eliminate.
Sinyangwe commended AIDS Healthcare Foundation Zambia, describing it as a longstanding partner in the fight against HIV and STIs, for spearheading community awareness and increasing uptake of testing.
“Condom distribution that will take place alongside testing is vital, as condoms are a very reliable means of preventing syphilis and other STIs,” he said.
Sinyangwe said the government would strengthen the supply of testing kits and Benzathine Penicillin, enhance training for health workers, improve data systems and mobilise resources to sustain the campaign.
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