Mansa, June 11, 2025, ZANIS — Mansa District in Luapula province has recorded a sharp increase in syphilis cases, with a significant number involving pregnant women, raising concern among health authorities.

In an interview with ZANIS, Mansa District Health Director, Chola Kaunda disclosed that between January and March 2025, the district recorded 746 cases of syphilis, stating that out of these, 239 cases involved pregnant women.

Dr. Kaunda confirmed that all the pregnant women who tested positive during this period received treatment.

He further revealed that from January to May 2025, syphilis cases among pregnant women increased to 316 out of 1,003 newly reported cases in the district.

Dr. Kaunda described the trend as worrisome and called for intensified prevention measures, particularly among sexually active individuals.

“Syphilis is a growing problem in the district, we give special attention to expecting mothers due to the complications untreated syphilis can cause during pregnancy. It can result in intra-uterine fetal death, where the baby dies inside the womb before birth,” he said.

Dr. Kaunda also noted an increase in macerated stillbirths (MSBs), with 27 cases recorded in the first quarter of 2025, rising to 37 by the end of May.

Dr. Kaunda emphasized the importance of partner notification and treatment to break the cycle of reinfection.

“One major challenge we face is that when a woman tests positive, few bring their partners for testing and treatment. The same applies to men. If only one partner is treated, the disease persists,” he said.

The District Health Director urged the public to consistently use condoms and adopt safe sex practices, stressing that syphilis is both preventable and curable when appropriate measures are taken.