State renews order to combat congenital syphilis

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) issued a renewed public health order, effective immediately, directing medical professionals to expand syphilis testing across the state. The order remains in force for one year from the date of issuance or until rescinded by the NMDOH Cabinet Secretary. The order mandates syphilis testing for all individuals aged 18 to 50 statewide. For pregnant individuals, testing is required during the first and third trimester and at delivery, and additionally at any urgent care center or emergency room presentation where the patient has not received prior prenatal care. The order also covers all pregnant people held in correctional facilities, including prisons, jails, and juvenile detention centers. NMDOH reports that syphilis rates in New Mexico declined 32% between 2023 and 2025. Despite that reduction, the state's 2024 congenital syphilis rate was 366.0 cases per 100,000 live births, representing a 743.3% increase from 2018. The national congenital syphilis rate in 2024 was 109.6 per 100,000 live births, a 216.8% increase from 2018.