(StatePoint) Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can spread to a fetus during pregnancy or a newborn during labor. When this happens, it is known as congenital syphilis and can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, infant death or medical issues for the baby, including deafness, blindness, bone deformities and meningitis.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, congenital syphilis has tripled in recent years, with more than 3,800 cases reported nationwide in 2023 alone. This is the highest number reported in one year since 1994.

“While serious, congenital syphilis is preventable through timely screenings before and during pregnancy,” says Margaret Ikeda, MD, MS, FAAP, board-certified pediatrician, Yale University School of Medicine, and member of the Ameri

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