Heatwave and dating apps ‘spread syphilis’

HOT WEATHER and dating apps are to blame for a rise in syphilis, according to medical professionals.

Health chiefs have warned that the recent heatwave is behind an increase in the spread of the infection, as more people have been sexually active.

Dating apps are also contributing to a rise in the number of people suffering from sexually transmitted diseases, as it is easier than ever for people to meet.

A health board in South Wales has revealed it has seen five times as many people diagnosed with syphilis in the past four months compared with the same period last year.

Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board said that since April there had been 56 confirmed cases of the infection in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend – with 16 of those coming in the past two weeks.

Most have been men, but several women have also tested positive.

Symptoms for syphilis can include small painless sores or ulcers, blotchy red rashes, small skin growths or white patches in the mouth. It may also cause tiredness, headaches, joint pains and swollen glands, but some people may experience no symptoms at all.