Those symptoms generally last 2 to 6 weeks and can clear up, even in the absence of treatment. If the infection is left untreated, the organism can seriously damage the brain, heart, and nervous system, even years after the initial exposure. Syphilis can also be fatal. While syphilis can be cured with antibiotics, long term damage cannot be undone. Anyone, regardless of age, race, sexual orientation, or residence, can get infected with syphilis if exposed to it.
Pregnant women can pass the disease to their babies before birth.
Babies born to women who are infected with syphilis may suffer from mental retardation or physical deformities, or may be stillborn. Some clinics now have Saturday hours as well as weekday hours.