What should you know about congenital syphilis in a newborn?

Syphilis can affect several parts of a newborn's body. Some babies have signs such as a rash, nasal discharge, swollen joints, fever, poor feeding or difficulty gaining weight; others have no clear signs at first. The clinical team considers the pregnancy history, testing results, examination and the baby's tests together. A parent's diagnosis is not proof that a baby is infected, but it is a reason for careful assessment.

Tell the paediatric team about any syphilis diagnosis or treatment during pregnancy and provide records if available. The team may recommend blood tests, examination and further checks, then decide whether antibiotic treatment is needed. Give prescribed treatment exactly as directed and attend follow-up visits, because early care can prevent infection from causing continuing harm. Do not delay assessment while waiting for symptoms.

Seek urgent medical help if the newborn is hard to wake, feeds poorly, has breathing problems, fever, repeated vomiting, seizures, a spreading rash, or unusual floppiness. A newborn who seems well still needs the planned review when exposure is possible. Contact the maternity or paediatric service promptly if an appointment or treatment plan is unclear.

Ask which tests the baby needs, whether antibiotic treatment is recommended, how it will be given, and when the results will be checked. Ask what symptoms should trigger urgent review and whether the parent needs STI screening or follow-up treatment.