While the number of syphilis infections among men in same-sex relationships continued to rise – a 21 per cent increase – cases among women spiked by 220 per cent and 129 per cent in heterosexual men.
Dr Chow said the increase in cases among heterosexual men and women was largely among people residing in outer Melbourne suburbs, areas that are considered to be socio-economically disadvantaged.
This previously wasn't the case.
While most infections were recorded in the northwest and southeast, the largest number of cases in women was reported in Port Phillip.
"The major concern with the rise in syphilis among women of reproductive age is infection during pregnancy and congenital syphilis," he said.
"We know syphilis can cause major complications during pregnancy and even result in the death of the child so we're urging all women at high risk to get screened during their third trimester in addition to the universal screening during the first."
Chow said the re-emergence of syphilis among heterosexuals in Victoria meant prevention messaging should be targeted towards them, particularly those residing in the outer suburbs.
It comes after Alfred Health in January launched the Victorian Sexual Health Network – a network of bulk-billed GP sexual health clinics aimed at improving access to screening for people in the outer areas of Melbourne.
Syphilis starts with an appearance of sores or ulcers, before developing into a rash.
If untreated, it could eventually cause a brain infection, dementia and blindness.
It can be cured with penicillin, but people may not seek treatment because they do not realise they have been infected, as syphilis is often asymptomatic following signs of the initial infection.
