Syphilis cases are on the rise in larger cities including Kansas City, but a new study by Kaiser suggests rural areas in particular are seeing an increase in those cases. This is a problem because often times people in rural communities may not have proper access to adequate healthcare.

In the video, infectious disease specialist Dr. Dana Hawkinson with The University of Kansas Health System says symptoms can linger for months, years and even decades. But going undetected can cause serious health problems. What can start out as a bad rash can turn into neuro syphilis or syphilis in the spinal fluid. If left untreated it can lead to death. Dr. Hawkinson says it’s important to be tested regularly if you are having unprotected sex or multiple partners and get treated immediately if needed.