(PL11) A MULTIFACTOR APPROACH TO CONGENITAL SYPHILIS COMMUNICATION CAN AID IN PREVENTION

Background:
Congenital syphilis rates have reached unprecedented numbers.  The rate of congenital syphilis increased 193% in the US comparing 2018 to 2022 and 342% in the Midwest.  Combatting congenital syphilis cannot be accomplished by STI programs alone and require diverse partnerships.  In Michigan, a strategic communications plan has aided in engagement of diverse partners across health care, policy, and payors.

Methods:
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has dedicated HIV/STI communications staff who work with Departmental communications staff to develop high-quality, customer orientated communications products for diverse audiences.  Audiences have included materials for clients, programs, providers, and policy makers.  Products have included brochures, grand rounds slides, social media, TV, and print media, academic detailing materials, clinical journal and newsletter messaging, and infographics.  Programmatic staff who aid in communications review and development include surveillance, program, disease intervention, and clinical staff.  Materials have focused on increasing screening for birthing persons and recognizing signs and symptoms for women of child-bearing age.

Results:
Communications have been distributed to patients in social media settings, STI clinics, syringe service programs, and WIC.  Provider newsletters such as primary care, emergency room, and OGBYNs have included congenital syphilis information.  Infographics have been created for Medicaid and Medicaid Health Plans.  The percent increase in syphilis rate for total syphilis in the Midwest is 109% (2022 compared to 2018) is comparable to the percent increase in Michigan (66.3%).    In Michigan, the percent increase in congenital syphilis cases between 2022 and 2018 is significantly below the Midwest average (342% vs. 170%).

Conclusion:
State STI programs need to develop a diverse communications strategy to combat the congenital syphilis epidemic nationally.  Michigan believes that a diverse communications strategy contributes to the limit of congenital syphilis case increases compared to other parts of the United States.