Receiving a reactive result does not mean that you have syphilis. The most likely scenario is that of non-specific reactivity, however the possibility that this is a very recently acquired infection needs to be given consideration and a detailed review of any of the risk factors should be made.

You will need to give another blood sample, two samples will need to be given if you have initially used a postal test or point of care test, to be 100% certain of the result. Your diagnosis won’t be confirmed until after this extra test. Until a definitive result is confirmed it is very important to follow the advice of the healthcare professional and take precautions to avoid transmitting the virus.