This easily read double-sided card warns that syphillis infections are on the rise, with tens of thousands of new cases each year, the great majority of them in African-American men between the ages of 20 and 39.

Readers learn that the disease is spread by all forms of sex, and even by non-sexual contact with the briefly appearing sores characteristic of the initial stages of syphillis.

They are warned that the symptoms that herald the onset of the infection soon disappear, though the disease continues to evolve, ultimately causing brain, liver, heart and bone damage, and still births in women.

The card teaches that syphillis in its early stages is curable, but can cause severe long-term damage if neglected.

It concludes with a list of prevention strategies, which include abstaining from sex, avoiding any contact with syphillis sores, restricting sex to one uninfected partner, and consistent condom use. An annual medical test is also recommended.