An increasing number of babies are being born with congenital syphilis in Hungary, prompting the National Public Health and Pharmacy Centre (NNGYK) to introduce new, nationwide procedures. The number of cases has risen significantly since 2021: 91 cases were recorded in 2025, while 100 were reported in the first eight months of 2026 alone.
New screening during the second half of pregnancy
According to the NNGYK, a coordinated response is needed because congenital syphilis can largely be prevented if the infection is detected and treated in time. One of the key changes under the new methodological guidance is that, from 1 September, pregnant women must undergo a second syphilis screening between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy, in addition to the test carried out during the first trimester.
The requirement also applies to pregnancies where antenatal care began before 1 September. If the pregnancy has already progressed beyond the 24–28-week period, the screening must be carried out at the next antenatal care appointment. Women who have not received antenatal care, as well as those considered to be at high risk of syphilis infection, must undergo a rapid syphilis test when they give birth.
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Strict deadlines for treatment
The NNGYK aims to ensure that no positive screening result is left without appropriate follow-up. In confirmed cases of syphilis, specific penicillin treatment must be started within 72 hours of the diagnosis at the latest.
Treating sexual partners is also considered essential to prevent transmission and reinfection. Identification and notification of partners must begin immediately, and no later than 48 hours after a confirmed infection. If a test is positive, immediate steps must also be taken to ensure appropriate care for both the mother and the newborn.
Hungary more than twice the WHO target
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has set a target of no more than 50 cases of congenital syphilis per 100,000 live births. Based on data recorded in Hungary in 2025, the rate was 126 cases per 100,000 live births. The seriousness of the situation is also reflected in the reported deaths: 26 children died from the infection in Hungary in 2025, while a further 23 deaths had been recorded by August 2026.
The new nationwide procedure standardises the steps to be taken from screening and treatment through to the management of sexual partners and the follow-up care of newborns. The NNGYK stresses that congenital syphilis is largely preventable, but this requires the infection to be detected and treated in time.
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