(NewsNation) — So far this year, at least three infant deaths associated with congenital syphilis have been reported in New York state, as the number of reported cases continues to increase nationwide.

On Aug. 12, the New York State Department of Health issued a release urging parents to get tested.

"No baby should die from syphilis in New York State or anywhere in this country; it is completely preventable," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said in the release.

What is congenital syphilis?

Syphilis is a common sexually transmitted infection that can result in serious health complications when left untreated, according to the CDC.

The infection develops in stages and can be spread through contact with a syphilis sore during unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex. It can als

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