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Rising syphilis infections across the Americas

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2026-08-27 16:04 UTC → 2026-08-28 00:19 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Syphilis infections are rising significantly across the Americas, with Latin America and the Caribbean accounting for 90% of new infections in the region. Data from the AIDS 2026 conference indicates that in 2024, there were approximately 4.2 million new infections, a 15% increase from 2022. In Chile, cases reached a historic peak in 2025 with 11,155 notifications, a rate of 55.2 per 100,000 inhabitants. While most cases occur in adults aged 20 to 39, there is a notable surge among older populations; the notification rate for women over 60 doubled between 2021 and 2025. Specifically, the Aysén region has reported a sharp increase, recording 90.1 cases per 100,000 inhabitants—an 8.8-fold increase since 2021. Deputy Alejandra Valdebenito has requested a detailed action plan to determine if this spike stems from increased transmission or improved testing. Argentina has also reported its highest level of syphilis cases since national surveillance ~~began,~~ began. By the end of 2025, the country recorded 46,799 notifications, representing 117.2 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The infection is heavily concentrated among those aged 15 to 39, who account for 76% of diagnoses, with ~~46,779~~ the 20 to 24 age group showing the highest incidence at 290.6 cases per 100,000. Geographically, the highest incidence was recorded in ~~2025—a 75.6% increase compared to 2022.~~ the South, followed by the Cuyo and Northeast regions. While improved ~~notification systems contribute~~ surveillance contributes to these figures, ~~experts emphasize an ‘undeniable increase in actual exposure to transmission agents.’~~ authorities acknowledge a higher circulation of the bacterium Treponema pallidum. In Mexico, specifically in Yucatán, health organizations have identified significant testing gaps. Data shows a disparity in STI testing, with 1,070 tests performed on men compared to only 340 on women, driven by a ‘persistent perception of lower vulnerability among women.’ Regionally, 14 countries have exceeded the elimination target of 0.5 cases per 1,000 live births. ~~PAHO continues to express concern regarding congenital syphilis, estimating 66,000 cases in the Americas in 2024.~~

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