Uruguayan health authorities reported a concerning surge in syphilis cases, with reported figures nearly doubling from around 3,566 in 2020 to between 7,035 and 7,091 in 2024. This increase is reflected in the incidence rate, which jumped from 101 to 196 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Males are disproportionately affected, and over 50% of diagnoses are in the 18-29 age group. Social inequalities exacerbate the problem, with vulnerable populations having limited access to healthcare and essential resources.
Health authorities in the Argentine province of Chubut have expressed their concern about an increase in the number of cases of syphilis. The provincial Health Ministry is working on different strategies and policies aimed at promoting the prevention of this disease and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), according to local media in Rawson.