Syphilis,a historically preventable sexually transmitted infection,is experiencing a notable resurgence in Mexico,according to newly released epidemiological data. The World Health Organization estimates 8 million new syphilis cases globally each year, and Mexico is now reporting a critically important increase in confirmed cases – a 17.52% jump between November 2024 and November 2025 alone.This concerning trend underscores the continued need for public health initiatives focused on STI awareness, prevention, and accessible treatment options.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that syphilis is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) that, if left untreated, can lead to serious health complications. This underscores the importance of STI awareness and access to timely medical care.
A significant concern is that the majority of syphilis infections are asymptomatic or go unnoticed, according to the WHO. This often delays diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk of long-term health problems.
Globally, an estimated 8 million people between the ages of 15 and 49 contracted syphilis in 2022.
Rising Cases in Mexico
Data from Mexico’s epidemiological bulletin reveals a concerning increase in confirmed syphilis cases. As of week 44 of 2025 (November 1), the country had recorded 18,883 confirmed cases of acquired syphilis. This represents a 17.52% increase compared to the same period in 2024, when 15,386 cases were registered.
The Ministry of Health’s Annual Morbidity Report for 2024 documented a total of 18,384 syphilis cases throughout the year. This means that, in the first ten months of 2025, the number of cases had nearly reached the total reported for all of the previous year.
Because syphilis infections are often asymptomatic, they are frequently detected either in the early stages – within the first 21 days after infection – or in the tertiary stage, which can manifest 10 to 30 years later. Early detection is crucial, as the infection typically resolves within 10 days with appropriate treatment. Delayed diagnosis can lead to more severe and long-lasting health consequences.
Of the reported syphilis cases in Mexico during the specified period of 2025, 10,132 were among men (56% of the total) and 7,951 were among women (44% of the total).
Regional Hotspots
Official data indicates that Jalisco is the state with the highest number of confirmed syphilis cases, totaling 1,851. Notably, Jalisco is one of the few regions where the number of reported infections is higher in women than in men, with 1,053 cases in women and 798 in men.
Mexico City follows in second place with 1,609 cases, the majority of which (1,405) were diagnosed in men, with 204 cases in women.
Baja California ranks third with 1,329 cases, followed by Tamaulipas with 1,050 cases. Guanajuato (1,019 cases), Nuevo León (1,005 cases), and Coahuila (1,004 cases) complete the list of states with the highest case counts.
A significant trend is that in three of the seven states with the highest number of confirmed cases, the number of infections in women exceeds that of men. These seven states, which collectively account for 49% of the national total, are located in the north and central-west regions of the country.
In 2024, the states with the most confirmed cases were: Jalisco (2,007), Mexico City (1,561), Guanajuato (1,249), Baja California (1,240), Nuevo León (1,120), Tamaulipas (972), Sinaloa (898), Chihuahua (777), and Coahuila (722).
