Two sexually transmitted infections, gonorrhoea and syphilis, have surged to their highest levels in more than ten years across Europe and the United Kingdom, prompting health officials to renew calls for safe sex practices and regular testing.
Record-Breaking STI Cases
According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), gonorrhoea cases in Europe reached 106,331 in 2024, a staggering 303% increase compared to 2015. Syphilis cases more than doubled over the same period, hitting 45,557. Spain reported the highest numbers, with 37,169 gonorrhoea and 11,556 syphilis cases in 2024.
In the UK, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recorded 71,802 gonorrhoea cases and 9,535 syphilis cases in England during 2024. Despite these dramatic rises, chlamydia remains the most common STI, with 168,889 diagnoses in the UK over the same period.
Gonorrhoea: Symptoms and Treatment
Gonorrhoea, often called 'the clap', is the second most common bacterial STI in the UK. It spreads through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex, as well as sharing unwashed sex toys. The infection can affect the cervix, urethra, rectum, throat, or eyes, and can be transmitted from a pregnant person to their baby.
Symptoms in women may include a yellow or greenish vaginal discharge, burning pain during urination, lower abdominal pain, or bleeding between periods. In men, symptoms can include a burning sensation when urinating, discharge from the penis, or sore testicles. Infection in other areas may cause anal itching, discharge, a sore throat, or eye redness and discharge.
However, around 1 in 10 infected men and nearly half of infected women show no symptoms, making regular testing crucial for sexually active individuals. Dr Hana Patel, a GP and consultant for Superdrug Online Doctor, recommends waiting two weeks after potential exposure before testing. Treatment typically involves a single injection of ceftriaxone, sometimes with oral medication. Untreated gonorrhoea can lead to pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, infertility, and, in rare cases, sepsis.
Syphilis: Symptoms and Treatment
Syphilis is less common than gonorrhoea but can cause mild symptoms, including small sores or white and grey warty growths on the genitals or anus. Dr Patel advises testing between four and 12 weeks after exposure, as antibodies take time to develop. Symptoms may include painless sores, swollen glands, a rash on the palms or soles, flu-like symptoms, and patchy hair loss.
Treatment involves antibiotics, typically penicillin injections. Diagnosis is made through blood tests or swabs of sores. If left untreated, syphilis can cause serious health problems, including damage to the heart, brain, and nerves.
The Importance of Condoms
With STI rates climbing and concerns about antibiotic-resistant strains, health experts stress the importance of using condoms with new or non-monogamous partners. Despite this, only 15% of Brits purchased condoms in 2023, and 41% used no contraception at all, according to Durex.
Dr Katy Sinka, consultant epidemiologist and head of the STI section at UKHSA, said: 'Condoms aren't just about preventing unwanted pregnancy; they are the main defence against STIs. If you have had condomless sex with a new or casual partner, it is even more important to get tested to detect any potential infections early and prevent passing them on to others.'
Free condoms are available at local sexual health clinics, and for those under 25, they can also be ordered online. Regular testing and open communication with partners remain key to curbing the spread of these infections.
