Outbreak Of HIV and Syphilis In Alaska Traced Back To Sex Partners Found Online

Answer 1

According to the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, a public health bulletin (.pdf) was issued to alert the state on an outbreak of HIV (.pdf) and syphilis (.pdf) infections in Fairbanks and Anchorage.

In the period between January 1, 2011 and January 31, 2012 there were 9 reported new cases of HIV in Fairbanks alone. 7 of those cases involved US Army members who had anonymous sexual partners they met online.

In the same time frame, Anchorage had 13 new cases of syphilis and 9 of those cases involved men having sexual relations with other men they met online.

According to the Anchorage HIV/STD program, several patients were infected with both syphilis and HIV. The program urges anyone with risk factors to get tested and to take precaution when having sex.

The US Army requires soldiers to undergo HIV testing every 2 years, as well as before and after deployments. Soldiers who are HIV positive can continue active duty but are not allowed to serve overseas and are required to inform future sex partners.