CDC News: Syphilis in newborns reaches 20-year high

CDC News: Syphilis in newborns reaches 20-year high

New 2017 STD Surveillance Report reveals need for improved testing and treatment for pregnant women

Cases of congenital syphilis more than doubled in the U.S. since 2013, outpacing overall increases in STDs nationwide. Congenital syphilis occurs when syphilis is passed from mother to baby during pregnancy or delivery and can result in miscarriage, newborn death, and severe lifelong health problems.

Key findings

• In 2017 there were 918 reported cases of congenital syphilis, up from 362 in 2013
• 70% of cases in 2017 were concentrated in just five states

Syphilis testing is crucial during pregnancy

• Once diagnosed, syphilis during pregnancy is easily cured with the right antibiotics
• All pregnant women should be tested for syphilis early in the first trimester
• Testing once may not be enough – women at increased risk for syphilis should also be tested in the third trimester and again at delivery

For more information, please see our press release. Additional media resources including graphics can be found on the NCHHSTP newsroom.