Alarming syphilis rates in Forest

JACKSON, Miss. - Mississippi health officials are reporting an alarming rate of syphilis cases in Forest County. 

Dr. Thomas Dobbs, the dean of population health at the University of Mississippi Medical Center said the rate of syphilis in Forest County is almost three times higher than Hinds County (Jackson). 

He said a majority of the cases found are congenital syphilis, which affects a mother and her newborn. 

Dobbs said there are a number of factors for this high rate, which could include a lack of insurance or access to prenatal care. 

Mississippi has one of the highest syphilis rates in the country, which is why health officials say it’s important to take precautions. 

Getting tested regularly and receiving prenatal care can help prevent women from spreading the disease to their baby. (WAPT 06/15/23) 

Background: Forest County is about 100 miles south of Jackson. Although there are no known associations to the syphilis cases, there are two universities and a community college in Forrest County:  University of Southern Mississippi and William Carey University; and Pearl River Community College.