Final answer:
Syphilis cannot be spread through nonsexual contacts and is only transmitted via direct contact with syphilitic sores during sexual activities. It is a serious sexually transmitted infection that requires early treatment to prevent progression to more severe stages.
Step-by-step explanation:
Syphilis cannot be spread through contact with toilet seats, doorknobs, swimming pools, hot tubs, bathtubs, shared clothing, or other nonsexual contacts. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum that is transmitted from person to person by direct contact with a syphilitic sore, known as a chancre. These sores can occur on the external genitals, vagina, anus, lips, or in the mouth. Transmission can occur during vaginal, or oral sex. After being cured of syphilis, a person can get the disease again through sexual contact with an infected person. Proper understanding of syphilis transmission is crucial to prevent spread and ensure early treatment, which is essential to avoid the disease progressing through its several stages, potentially leading to fatal outcomes if untreated.