Syphilis outbreak and screening response in Hungary

Hungary is responding to a significant surge in syphilis infections with stricter medical regulations and prenatal screening protocols. Reported cases rose from 1,157 in 2023 to over 2,000 in 2025, with an upward trend continuing into 2026. This increase has been particularly severe regarding congenital syphilis; while 12 congenital syphilis deaths were recorded in 2021, 23 infant deaths have been reported so far in 2026, surpassing the total from the previous year.

To combat the spread and prevent fetal infection, new ministerial regulations mandate dual screening for pregnant women. Testing will now occur during both the first and third trimesters. Additionally, legislative amendments will allow healthcare professionals to access test results within the Electronic Health Service Space (EESZT), even if a patient had previously opted out of data sharing. For high-risk individuals or those not receiving regular prenatal care, rapid tests will be administered at the time of childbirth to mitigate risks such as neurological damage and bone development disorders.