Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (including oral and anal sex) caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. It is highly contagious that one may get it by just prolonged kissing or close body contact. The disease is spread from sores which may go unrecognized. In this case, the infected person may pass the disease to his or her partner unknowingly.
Pregnant women with the disease can affect their baby. This disease, called congenital syphilis, can cause abnormalities or even death to the child.
Syphilis cannot be spread by toilet seats, door knobs, swimming pools, hot tubs, bath tubs, shared clothing, or eating utensils.