Syphilis in brief

• Syphilis is caused by a bacterium that can cause infections in almost all organs and in the brain.
• Men who have sex with men are most at risk for syphilis.
• Early symptoms of syphilis include skin rashes and flu symptoms.
• Without treatment, symptoms can get worse, for example with hair loss and eye and ear problems.
• Sometimes you don't notice syphilis until later. It can sit dormant in your body for up to 30 years, and then still cause serious health problems.