Syphilis notifications remain high across the country and congenital syphilis remains a significant health threat, with some cases leading to infant death. First Nations peoples continue to be disproportionately impacted by congenital syphilis, with notification rates 7 times higher than non-Indigenous Australians. 

In 2025 alone, as of 6 August, there have been 3,546 cases of infectious syphilis, including 11 cases of congenital syphilis with 4 leading to infant death.

What can healthcare workers do?

Healthcare workers should ensure they are across the latest guidelines and recommendations for testing and treating infectious syphilis. You can also refer to ASHMs Syphilis Decision Making Tool. Syphilis is preventable, and easy to treat if found early. However, as mentioned in Professor Kidd’s statement, syphilis can often show no symptoms, meaning it requires a proactive and vigilant approach.

A particular focus on congenital syphilis is needed. It is now recommend that all pregnant women be tested for syphilis three times during pregnancy; at the first antenatal visit, at 26-28 weeks and at 36 weeks or birth (whichever is earlier), aligning with the latest Living Evidence for Australian Pregnancy & Postnatal Care (LEAPP) recommendations.

Other resources

• See resources to support conversations about syphilis with patients
• View ASHM's syphilis decision making tool
• View Safer Victoria's Syphilis testing during pregnancy guidelines