Rise in Serious Sexually Transmitted Infections Poses Risk to Newborns

There’s been an alarming increase in serious sexually transmitted infections (STIs), putting newborns at greater risk of severe complications.

In Australia, 42 infants have tragically lost their lives to this preventable disease, raising concerns among experts about a similar potential rise in death tolls in the U.S.

Syphilis cases across the United States have surged significantly over the last decade. For instance, New York has seen a fivefold increase since 2013, which mirrors a nationwide trend.

Recently, various counties in California have reported particularly troubling rates.

Federal data reveals that congenital syphilis, which passes from infected mothers to their babies, has skyrocketed by 700% compared to about a decade ago.

“As a physician and former public health official, I have never been more concerned about the incidence of congenital syphilis,” stated Jeffrey D. Klausner, a clinical professor at the Keck School of Medicine at USC, in a recent op-ed.

If untreated, congenital syphilis can result in miscarriage, premature birth, skeletal issues, neurological problems, developmental delays, stillbirth, or the death of the infant shortly after birth.

According to a CDC report in 2024, the number of new congenital syphilis cases was around 4,000, marking the highest figure since the mid-1950s.

In Australia, the disease has led to the death of 42 infants over the past decade, infecting many others, prompting the country’s chief medical officer to label it a “communicable disease event of national significance.” This situation is quite alarming, and minimizing the infection’s spread is critical, emphasized University of Adelaide emeritus professor Maciej Henneberg.

Syphilis spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and symptoms can appear within 10 to 90 days post-exposure, often starting with a painless sore where the bacterium enters the body.

Even if the infection persists, the initial sore may heal on its own within 3 to 6 weeks. The next infection phase can introduce symptoms like rash, fever, fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and hair loss.

If ignored, the disease can damage critical organs, leading to severe consequences like blindness or even death.

Testing typically involves a blood test, and unfortunately, congenital syphilis cases continue to climb each year in the U.S. This is despite advancements in reducing other STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea.

By 2024, the country may log 12 consecutive years of rising congenital syphilis cases, reaching heights last seen in 1994.

Most cases stem from pregnant women not receiving screenings or proper treatment if they test positive. Barriers such as lack of insurance, fear of immigration issues, and substance abuse often hinder appropriate prenatal care.

Data indicates that among women who receive adequate prenatal care, only about 80% are tested for syphilis.

Fortunately, syphilis can be effectively treated with antibiotics like penicillin, especially when caught early.

“Since syphilis is completely preventable, adequate treatment for a pregnant individual can eliminate the risk to their baby,” noted Dr. Kerry Hosking, director of sexual health strategy at NT Health.

In response to rising syphilis rates, New York State has instituted new screening guidelines requiring pregnant women to be tested at their initial prenatal visit, during the third trimester, and at delivery.

However, Klausner believes more proactive measures are needed on a national level, such as rapid testing and immediate penicillin injections at clinics. He also stressed the importance of integrating prenatal care with substance abuse treatment to ensure that at-risk populations receive necessary testing and care.

“Infants who have died have no voice. Many families affected by congenital syphilis are too ashamed to speak out,” Klausner emphasized. “Those who care about children’s health must advocate strongly for public health leaders to take action.”