This next story gives new meaning to the term ‘computer virus’, sorry I couldn’t resist. Is there a Facebook syphilis connection that British researchers claim? Or is it purely coincidental that a section of North Eastern England has seen a rise in syphilis cases? Based on the fact that a few of those infected with syphilis from that area had met on Facebook; the British researchers see a connection.

394px Syphilis poster wpa cure

The research being conducted found that younger adults in Sunderland, Durham, and Teesside were 25% more likely to log onto Facebook. Syphilis cases have quadrupled in that area and researchers feel Facebook bears some of the responsibility.

I don’t think there’s any question that people are more easily able to connect with others who may have the same proclivities; but can the social networking site be totally to blame for the actions of individuals? The answer to that is no. Regardless of how easy Facebook makes it to get in touch with old friends or meet new people, it’s ultimately up to the individual as to how far they carry out their “relationships.”

There are pages on Facebook geared toward just about any group you could imagine. Even groups for people who would like to meet for casual sex. But let’s be honest, Facebook or not, these people would find a way to connect regardless. You can join the Right Pundits page on Facebook, syphilis has not been detected up to this point.

Spokesmen for Facebook dismiss the accusation that there is a Facebook syphilis connection. It seems to be more of a coincidence than anything that syphilis cases in one section of England have risen and that in the same area there are those who may access the website. Basically what research like this does is give people a readymade excuse for their behavior.