The city of Hortolândia in Brazil reported a 58.9% rise in sexually transmitted infections in 2025 compared to the previous year, prompting health officials to emphasize the importance of prevention measures such as condom use.
Hortolândia, a city in the Campinas region of Brazil, has witnessed a significant increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with reports rising from 482 cases in 2024 to 766 cases in 2025—a jump of 58.9%. This alarming trend makes Hortolândia the city with the highest surge in STIs in the region. In addition to Hortolândia, two other nearby cities, Valinhos and Campinas, also reported increases but at a much lower rate, reflecting a regional healthcare challenge that needs to be addressed.
Health professionals, particularly gynecologist Monique Mion Bürguer, have raised concerns over the spike in infections, especially with the upcoming Carnival celebrations, where social gatherings and festivities could lead to further spread if precautions are not taken. Dr. Bürguer emphasizes the crucial role of condoms in preventing STIs, alongside the availability of vaccines for hepatitis B and HPV, which are essential tools in reducing transmission rates.
This rise in STIs can be attributed to a combination of factors, including a lack of awareness and preventive practices among the population. As awareness efforts ramp up with these statistics, there is an urgent call for public health interventions to educate residents on STIs and promote responsible sexual behavior, particularly in light of events that may contribute to increased interactions and potential exposure.
