Syphilis (Early)

5,984 cases in 2024 — near the 5-year baseline of ~32,760.

What is it?

Early syphilis includes primary and secondary stages of infection with Treponema pallidum. NYS had 5,984 early syphilis cases in 2024, reflecting a significant and sustained national surge. Without treatment, syphilis progresses through stages and can cause serious damage to the heart, brain, and nervous system decades later. Congenital syphilis — passed from mother to fetus — has also been rising dramatically and can be fatal to newborns.

How it spreads

Spreads through direct contact with a syphilis sore (chancre) during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Sores can occur in the genitals, anus, under the foreskin, lips, or mouth and are often painless and easy to miss.

Symptoms

Primary stage (10–90 days after exposure): a single firm, round, painless sore (chancre) that heals on its own in 3–6 weeks. Secondary stage (weeks to months later): skin rash (often on palms and soles), flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, and mucous membrane sores. Both stages are highly infectious.

Who is at risk?

Sexually active people. Men who have sex with men account for a large proportion of cases. Pregnant people with untreated syphilis face high risk of passing the infection to their baby.

What you can do

Based on NYSDOH annual communicable disease report. Threat level reflects 2024 case counts compared to the 5-year baseline.