NEW YORK -- The New York State Department of Health (NYDOH) is warning about the risks of congenital syphilis after three infant deaths related to the disease have been reported in the state so far this year.

The deaths occurred outside of New York City and are part of "a concerning rise" in congenital syphilis cases in the state and across the nation, according to the NYDOH.

Cases of congenital syphilis have been rising nationwide in recent years, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2023, there were more than 3,800 cases reported, a 106% increase from 2019 and the highest annual case count on record since 1994.

Public health experts told ABC News that congenital syphilis is largely preventable and, when left untreated, it can be dangerou

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