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STDs & Sexual Health

Can You Get Syphilis from a Blood Transfusion?

Linda Girgis | MD

Medically reviewed by Linda Girgis | MD, Girgis Family Medicine on August 22nd, 2026.

Yes, syphilis can be transmitted through blood transfusions, though this is extremely rare today. Modern blood screening protocols test all donated blood for syphilis using highly sensitive serological tests. The risk has decreased dramatically since mandatory testing began in the 1940s. Current estimates suggest the risk of syphilis transmission through transfusion is less than 1 in 10 million units. However, there's still a theoretical window period immediately after infection when tests might not detect the bacteria. Blood banks also maintain strict donor screening questionnaires and deferrals for high-risk behaviors to further minimize transmission risk.

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