Transmission of Syphilis

Syphilis is transmitted through direct contact with syphilitic sores (chancre) during unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex. Syphilis can also be spread by sharing needle with an infected person. Pregnant women with syphilis can spread the disease to the unborn child during pregnancy resulting in congenital syphilis.

Incubation period: 10 to 90 days, average of 3 weeks.

Characteristics of Treponema pallidum

Treponema pallidum is afraid of dryness and oxygen, so its ability to survive outside the human body is extremely low. It will die quickly in a dry environment and sunlight, but it can survive for a long time in a humid environment. Syphilis is not usually spread through toilet seats, daily activities, bathtubs, or sharing utensils or clothing ^{[CDC Fact Sheet]}. This is mainly because the bacteria will die soon after leaving the human body, so it is almost impossible to use organisms as a transmission medium. Ordinary disinfectants and hot soapy water can kill this bacteria in a short time, and boiling can kill it immediately.

Prevention of Syphilis

Syphilis can be prevented by using condoms correctly and consistently during vaginal, anal and oral sex.