A Preventable Infection is Surging Among Virginia's Babies

Virginia is confronting two entirely different—and urgent—health stories. Syphilis infections are climbing, and congenital cases surged 66% in 2024, exposing more newborns to devastating, preventable outcomes. Meanwhile, new residential recovery centers in Southwest Virginia are opening doors for pregnant and parenting moms to stay with their children while getting treatment, thanks to opioid settlement funds. What do these two trends tell us about gaps—and hope—in Virginia’s public health response? Find out as host Dutchie Jessee discusses the healthcare battles facing Virginia's children with reporter Emily Schabacker.