HOT TOPICS

Syphilis Increase in Anchorage

The State of Alaska Department of Health and Social Services announced on March 14, 2018 an increase in the number of syphilis cases reported during the first quarter. To date, there have been 20 confirmed cases of infectious syphilis reported this year. By comparison, annual case counts were 20, 20, and 21, for 2015, 2016, and 2017, respectively. 80% of the cases this year occurred in Anchorage; 90% were in males; and ages ranged from 20-63 years, with 80% of cases >30 years of age. Of the males, 80% reported having sex with other males (MSM). Some patients reported finding sex partners through phone apps (e.g., Grindr and Craigslist). 

Contact the Student Health and Counseling Center to schedule a screening. It's good to know your status! 

State of Alaska Mumps Outbreak

The State of Alaska issued a Public Health Advisory on December 28, 2017, related to the Anchorage mumps outbreak that started during the summer of 2017.  This outbreak continues to spread.  Vaccination with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the best way to prevent infection with the mumps virus.

Please check your immunization records to assure you have had at least two MMR vaccinations.  For persons who have received only one dose of MMR, a second dose should be given to all school-age children aged ≥4 years and select adults born during or after 1957 who are at high risk for mumps exposure (i.e., healthcare personnel, international travelers, and students at post-high school educational institutions).

If you have any questions about your MMR immunization status, or are in need of an MMR immunization please contact the SHCC. 

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