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What is the First To Know® syphilis test?

The First To Know® Syphilis Test is a home-use fingerstick blood test for the detection of antibodies to the bacteria that cause syphilis. It yields an in-home result—in minutes.

  1. Stick your finger with the provided lancet.

  2. Touch the test cartridge to your finger to let a drop of blood enter the cartridge.

  3. Tap the cartridge twice and lay it flat.

  4. Wait 15 minutes for your at-home result.

See detailed instructions to perform the test.

Who is this test for?

This test is for people who think they might have an illness called syphilis because they have symptoms or have been sexually active with someone who has syphilis. Pregnant women should also get checked for syphilis when they visit their doctor. This test is intended to be sold over the counter (OTC).

What is included in the test?

Each box contains the following materials to conduct the test:

  • One (1) sealed aluminum pouch containing one (1) First To Know® Syphilis Test
  • One (1) Instructions For Use in English & Spanish
  • One (1) Educational Guide in English & Spanish
  • Two (2) disposable, single-use sterile lancets
  • One (1) alcohol swab
  • One (1) bandage

Other materials needed, but not provided:

  • Watch or timer

What to know about First To Know®

Why test for syphilis?

Syphilis is a type of infection that spreads through sex and can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. You can get syphilis by direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex or by kissing someone with a syphilis sore in their mouth. Sores are typically painless, and a person may not even realize they have them. It can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby in utero.

Why test with First To Know®?

The First To Know® Syphilis Test is the first and only over-the-counter syphilis test granted FDA de novo marketing authorization that can provide an in-home result, in minutes.

Why test now?

Syphilis has grown to an epidemic-level public health priority in the United States with a nearly 80% increase in syphilis diagnoses and a more than 180% increase in congenital syphilis over a five-year period.*

The majority of syphilis infections do not have noticeable symptoms, so you may not even suspect that you have it. Over time, the disease can progress and can cause serious health issues. You could also be spreading the disease to any sexual partners. Fortunately, it can be effectively treated and cured with antibiotics when diagnosed in its early stages.

*Source: Centers for Disease Control

What to do if you test positive

Find my Public health department

See your doctor to confirm the result and obtain antibiotic treatment. If you can’t see a doctor, contact your local health department.

Treatment for syphilis infection is available but requires a consultation with a healthcare provider. Avoid sexual contact with others until after you have consulted with a doctor. You should notify anyone you have had sex with in the last 60 days (2 months) before receiving a positive test result or before your symptoms started. If you haven’t had sex in the last 60 days, you should notify your most recent partner.

Education and Counseling

If you need help, please refer to the resources to the right. If you do not have access to a healthcare provider, please contact your local Public Health Department.

You are not alone. There are many organizations available to help you and provide you with important information.

Instructions

How to take the First To Know® Syphilis Test®

Written Instructions (PDF)

Step-by-Step Illustrated Instructions

Healthcare Provider Full Package Insert

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

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