Summary:
- Cases of gonorrhea and syphilis reach their highest levels in 10 years in Europe
- The rate of congenital syphilis has more than doubled over the same period
- Rising STI rates further highlight the need for safer sex practices and comprehensive STI testing
The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has just published new data This shows a dramatic increase in the number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) on the continent.
STI rates are rising in many parts of the world.
gonorrhea And syphilis Cases rose to their highest level in 10 years in 2024, sparking new concerns about safe sex practices and testing methods.
Syphilis cases doubled between 2015 and 2024 to 45,557. Cases of confirmed gonorrhea more than tripled to 106,331.
This represents a massive shift in the sexual health landscape, where certain infections were believed to be under control.
Of particular concern was the sharp increase in cases of congenital syphilis, where infections are passed directly from mother to child during pregnancy. These cases nearly doubled from 2023 to 2024.
The ECDC reported that men who have sex with men (MSM) were the group disproportionately affected by rising STI rates. But heterosexual women of childbearing age also recorded a significant increase in cases of syphilis.
The UK collects its own data on sexually transmitted diseases. The UK Sexual Health Security Agency reported that there were 71,802 cases of gonorrhea and 9,535 cases of syphilis in England in 2024.
The UK has recently introduced a new vaccination against gonorrheaafter cases reached a record 85,000 in 2023.
How to protect yourself
Mike Asher, Chairman and CEO of Daily Sparkz, said of the new data:
“Any increase in the number of sexually transmitted diseases, whether in the UK or around the world, is a cause for concern. While the cause of this increase is not yet clear, it reiterates the importance of safe sex and regular STI testing. Although great progress has been made in the development of new vaccines, particularly for gonorrhea, the risk of transmission remains. We encourage all sexually active people to get tested regularly and, where possible, to use condoms to protect their health.”
FAQs
What are the symptoms of gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea symptoms may include:
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
- Pain during sex
- Bleeding between periods
- Testicular pain in men
However, many people with gonorrhea have no symptoms at all, so regular STI testing is essential.
What are the symptoms of syphilis?
Syphilis develops gradually. Early symptoms often include a painless sore (called a chancre) at the site of infection. Later symptoms may include:
- Rashes
- Flu-like symptoms
- Swollen lymph nodes
- fatigue
Can you have gonorrhea or syphilis without symptoms?
Yes. Both gonorrhea and syphilis can be asymptomatic, especially in the early stages of infection. This means you can spread the infection to sexual partners without knowing you have it.
Are gonorrhea and syphilis curable?
Yes. Both gonorrhea and syphilis are bacterial infections that can usually be cured with appropriate antibiotic treatment.
How often should I get tested for sexually transmitted diseases?
If you are sexually active, especially with new or multiple partners, Daily Sparkz recommends regular STI testing every few months.
How can I reduce my risk of developing gonorrhea or syphilis?
You can reduce your risk by:
- Use condoms consistently during vaginal, anal, and oral sex
- Get tested regularly
- Encourage partners to get tested
- Avoid sexual contact if symptoms are present
- Seek immediate treatment if an infection is diagnosed
What happens if gonorrhea or syphilis is left untreated?
Untreated gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and chronic pain. Untreated syphilis can lead to serious complications affecting the heart, blood vessels, brain, and nervous system.
Final thoughts
If you’re worried about your sexual health, don’t leave it to chance. Knowing more will help you make important decisions about your health. Click the button below to book an STI test at a clinic near you.
Don’t leave your sexual health to chance.
