As a physician, I have never been more concerned about rates of congenital syphilis
Medical experts report an alarming rise in congenital syphilis cases across the US, with specific spikes noted in Texas and several California counties. The disease has caused 42 infant deaths in Australia. Experts warn that the US may see an increase in domestic deaths if the trend continues.
What changed
New reports identify specific US regional spikes and confirm 42 infant deaths in Australia.
Live updates
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Congenital Syphilis Cases Surge in US and Australia
confidence 80%Medical experts report an alarming rise in congenital syphilis cases across the US, with specific spikes noted in Texas and several California counties. The disease has caused 42 infant deaths in Australia. Experts warn that the US may see an increase in domestic deaths if the trend continues.
What's confirmed:
- Congenital syphilis has caused the deaths of 42 babies in Australia.
- Syphilis rates in Texas are rising faster than the national average.
- Medical professionals have expressed high levels of concern regarding congenital syphilis rates in June 2026.
Still unconfirmed:
- Several California counties reported particularly alarming rates of the disease last month.
- A national shortage of the only approved first-line medication for pregnant women may be hindering the medical response.
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Physicians Warn of Rising Congenital Syphilis Amid Drug Shortage
confidence 100%A former public health official and physician expressed serious concern regarding congenital syphilis rates in June 2026. A national shortage of the only approved first-line medication for pregnant women may be hindering the medical response. This drug is required to prevent the transmission of the disease to infants.
What's confirmed:
- The United States is experiencing a shortage of the only approved first-line drug for pregnant women with syphilis.
- A physician and former public health official expressed serious concern over congenital syphilis rates in June 2026.
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Congenital Syphilis Rates Rise Amid Medication Shortages
confidence 90%Syphilis rates have reached their highest levels since the 1950s, with newborn cases increasing for 12 straight years as of 2024. Untreated infections can cause stillbirth, infant death, and lifelong neurological issues. The U.S. currently faces a shortage of the single domestic drug used to treat the condition.
What's confirmed:
- U.S. cases of newborn syphilis increased for the 12th consecutive year in 2024.
- Syphilis rates are at their highest levels since the 1950s.
- Untreated congenital syphilis can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, infant death, and neurological or skeletal abnormalities.
- Congenital syphilis is an entirely preventable infection.
Still unconfirmed:
- 42 babies died from the infection in Australia.
- An HHS doctor is studying a 5-minute syphilis test to protect newborns.
- The U.S. is running short of the one domestic drug that treats congenital syphilis.