HIV and syphilis

People living with HIV who become infected with syphilis, or know they have been exposed to syphilis, should be treated promptly.  The progression to neurosyphilis can occur very rapidly in people with compromised immune systems.  Therefore, if you are HIV+ and have been exposed to syphilis, it is very important for your continued health and well being to be treated right away.
 
HIV and syphilis is a troublesome combination because those co-infected are three to five times more likely to transmit HIV through unprotected oral, anal or vaginal sex.

Having a sexually transmitted disease like syphilis also makes it easier to acquire HIV.

Treatment for those living with HIV

If you are HIV+ and have been exposed to syphilis, regardless of the test
results, you should be treated. 
       
If you are HIV+ and have been told you have syphilis, you should receive
medication and be followed closely by a physician.
       
All sexually active people who are HIV+ should be screened for syphilis every
3-4 months.

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