Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Syphilis has four stages: primary, secondary, latent and tertiary. Each stage has different signs and symptoms. If left untreated, syphilis can cause serious health problems. 

Syphilis cases have been increasing in Virginia and in the US for the past several years. During 2023, early syphilis cases have increased 22% in Virginia.   

Women who can get pregnant are now becoming infected more often than they were 10 years ago.  More babies are born with syphilis after their mothers had syphilis while pregnant.