Addressing the Increase of Syphilis in Arizona

Arizona is currently in a syphilis outbreak in women and babies. Arizona now has the 5th highest rate of syphilis in the country.

Based on the recommendation from the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), with support from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) is covering three syphilis screenings during pregnancy statewide effective immediately.

That means that for the duration of the Arizona syphilis outbreak, AHCCCS will cover all of the augmented screening recommendations statewide:

1. All pregnant women at first prenatal visit, early in the third trimester, and at delivery, regardless of risk.
2. Opt-out screening in both men and women who use drugs.
3. Sexually active men who have sex with men: testing annually and every 3-6 months if at increased risk.
4. Sexually active persons with HIV: testing at least annually and every 3-6 months if at increased risk.

For additional resources on syphilis prevention, screening and treatment, please refer to:

2015 CDC Guidelines or azdhs.gov/syphilis for updated information on the outbreak.