The San Luis Obispo County Health Department has seen a spike in a common sexually tranmitted dease. The spike has led to a shortage of a cure. According to yesterday’s press release, last year’s total number of syphilis cases was 99. The rise in the number of cases is consistent with trends in California and across the country. The surge in syphilis cases nationwide is driving a supply shortage of an injectable form of penicillin called Bicillin L-A. Officials say early detection is key to a cure, so talk to your health provider about options.