Syphilis Transmission: Understanding How It Spreads

Sexual contact is the most common way to get syphilis. It can be transmitted through oral, anal, or vaginal sex.

During pregnancy, a mother with syphilis can pass the infection to her baby. This is called congenital syphilis. Congenital syphilis can cause serious health problems, including blindness, deafness, and mental disabilities.

Direct contact with an infected person's open sores can also transmit syphilis. This is rare, but it can happen if someone touches an infected sore and then touches their own eyes, mouth, or nose.

Blood transfusions rarely transmit syphilis because donated blood is carefully screened for the infection.

Syphilis cannot be transmitted through:

* Casual contact, such as shaking hands or hugging

* Sharing utensils or food

* Using public restrooms or pools

* Coughing or sneezing