There were 3,882 congenital syphilis cases reported by states and Washington, D.C. in 2023 including 252 stillbirths and 27 infant deaths.

Changes to the number of HPV vaccine doses and the wording of HPV vaccination ages also may be coming in the new year.

There were 3,766 cases of congenital syphilis in 2022, up from 300 in 2013. Congenital syphilis disproportionately impacts some racial and ethnic groups.

Understanding the role of over-the-counter and online testing for sexually transmitted infections in family health care is important for all pediatricians, according to a doctor who will be addressing the topic at the National Conference & Exhibition.

Lentocilin (benzathine benzylpenicillin tetrahydrate) is a powder and diluent for suspension for injection and is available in a strength of 1.2 million units.

Extencilline (benzathine benzylpenicillin) is a powder and diluent for reconstituting for injection and can be used to treat syphilis in children and adults.

The ointment prevents ophthalmia neonatorum caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

About 88% of last year’s cases could have been prevented with timely testing and treatment during the mother’s pregnancy.

Shigellosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute diarrhea.

Some children may be at increased risk for severe disease.

Syphilis cases among newborns increased 15% in 2020.

The report also addresses issues of consent, confidentiality and coverage.

More than 50 stakeholders attended the three-day virtual meeting.

Key changes were made to treatment recommendations for Neisseria gonorrhoeae , Chlamydia  trachomatis , Trichomonas  vaginalis and pelvic inflammatory disease.

HPV vaccination coverage remains lower than other recommended vaccines for adolescents, despite the fact that HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S. and persistent HPV can cause oropharyngeal, cervical and anogenital cancers.

The report emphasizes strategies to respect patient autonomy; reduce risk of sexual violence, abuse, exploitation and coercion; promote safer sex practices; and foster the development of healthy sexuality regardless of physical, cognitive or socioemotional limitations.

The AAP recommends that pediatricians conduct routine HIV testing for patients ages 13 and older.

Roughly 36% of teens surveyed did not discuss any sexual/reproductive health topics at their last doctor visit.

The AAP recommends starting the HPV vaccine series between 9-12 years. Roughly 57% of girls and 52% of boys were fully vaccinated last year.

Statements can assist pediatricians in understanding and supporting the use of barrier methods by their patients and address obstacles to use.