In Argentina, the National Epidemiological Survey (BEN) reports that a period of steady increase of syphilis cases began in 2011, accelerating markedly from 2015 onward.

In addition, between 2015 and 2019, the number of reported cases tripled, reflecting a sustained intensification of the upward trend.

During 2020 and 2021, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant decrease in the number of reported cases was observed, attributable to the impact of the health emergency on walk-in demand, diagnostic capacity, and the normal functioning of health services. However, even in this context, the number of reported cases remained above the levels recorded in the decade prior to 2015.

From 2022 onward, the upward trend resumed, with a marked acceleration in the last two years analyzed. In 2023, the number of annual cases exceeded 30,000 for the first time since the beginning of the series, and in 2024, the highest value recorded to date was reached, with a total of 36,917 cases reported nationwide. This number represents a 38.5% increase compared to 2022 and confirms the consolidation of an upward trend.

In 2025, a 20.5% increase was recorded compared to the same period in 2024, with a total of 36,702 cases in the general population.

Analyzing by jurisdiction, the provinces with the highest year-on-year percentage increase in their rates are Neuquén (110%), Entre Ríos (72%), and Tierra del Fuego (57%). In contrast, significant decreases were observed in Formosa (42%), San Luis (18%), La Pampa (14%), and Santa Fe (2%), although these are generally jurisdictions with a lower absolute number of cases.

The greatest burden of disease was concentrated in people aged 15 to 39, representing 76% of all cases. The highest rates during the analyzed period were observed in the 20-24 and 25-29 age groups. The 30-34 age group also presented a high burden, with an overall rate of 146.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by the 15-19 age group with an overall rate of 108.2 per 100,000 inhabitants. From age 35 onward, a progressive decrease in both cases and rates is observed, a pattern that is more pronounced in women.

The increase in cases in our country is part of a global and regional rise, particularly affecting young people and women of childbearing age. In response, the national health ministry is working with local jurisdictions to strengthen epidemiological surveillance and the systematization of information in order to anticipate potential scenarios and make timely decisions.

In this regard, the National Ministry of Health maintains the periodic analysis of syphilis notifications in the general population, pregnant women, and perinatal exposures. This analysis allows for the characterization of the most affected populations, timely review of screening capacities, detection of outbreaks, and evaluation of the health response. Furthermore, the Ministry distributes reagents for rapid tests and benzathine penicillin to the provinces to improve the diagnosis and treatment of confirmed cases. It is worth noting that the implemented distribution system follows a continuous supply model, based on monitoring provincial consumption, projected demand, and prioritizing jurisdictions with the highest disease burden.

Similarly, efforts are underway to strengthen the use of rapid syphilis tests at the primary care level, promoting early detection and reducing barriers to diagnosis. These tests provide results in just a few minutes, facilitating immediate decision-making and improving the timely identification of affected individuals.