Gonorrhoea and Syphilis Cases Hit Record Highs in Europe

Two major sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have reached record levels in Europe, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Gonorrhoea cases soared to 106,331 in the latest reporting period, a 33% increase since 2015, while syphilis cases more than doubled to 45,557 over the same timeframe.

Gaps in Testing and Prevention

The ECDC attributed the surge to increasing gaps in STI testing and prevention across the continent. Bruno Ciancio, head of the Directly Transmitted and Vaccine-Preventable Diseases unit, warned that these infections can cause lifelong complications. 'These infections can cause severe complications, such as chronic pain and infertility and, in the case of syphilis, problems with the heart or nervous system,' he said. 'In cases where infections pass directly to newborns, it can lead to potentially lifelong complications.'

Spain Leads in STI Cases

Spain recorded the highest number of both infections in Europe, with 37,169 gonorrhoea cases and 11,556 syphilis cases. Sexually active individuals are urged to consistently use condoms with new or multiple partners and to get tested if any symptoms appear.

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UK Introduces Gonorrhoea Vaccine

Last year, the United Kingdom became the first country in the world to roll out a vaccine for gonorrhoea. Clinical trials showed the breakthrough jab reduced the risk of infection by more than 50%, marking a major milestone in sexual health.

Symptoms and Transmission

Gonorrhoea symptoms typically appear around two weeks after infection but can remain dormant for months or be absent entirely. In women, signs include yellow or greenish discharge, a burning sensation during urination, abdominal pain, and bleeding between periods. In men, symptoms may include sore testicles, discharge from the penis, and burning during urination. The infection spreads through unprotected sex, including oral sex, and can affect the eyes, mouth, and genitals.

Syphilis is a bacterial infection easily treated with antibiotics in its early stages. It is transmitted through contact with an infected sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex, or by sharing sex toys. Untreated syphilis can cause severe long-term problems, including damage to the brain and other organs. Pregnant women with syphilis risk miscarriage, stillbirth, or passing the infection to their baby.