Gonorrhoea and Syphilis cases hit highest level in Europe in 10 years

Summary:

• Cases of Gonorrhoea and Syphilis reach 10-year highs in Europe
• Rates of congenital Syphilis more than double in the same timeframe
• Rises in rates of STIs re-emphasises the need for safe sex practices and comprehensive STI testing

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has just released new data showing a dramatic rise in the number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) on the continent.

STI rates are rising in many parts of the world.

Gonorrhoea 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 Gonorrhoea more than tripled to 106,331.

This marks a massive shift in the sexual health landscape, where certain infections were thought to be under control.

Of particular concern was the sharp rise in the number of cases of congenital Syphilis, where infections pass directly from the mother to the 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 rates of STIs. However, heterosexual women of reproductive age also saw significant increases in cases of Syphilis.

The UK collects its own data on STIs. The UK Sexual Health Security Agency reported that there were 71,802 cases of Gonorrhoea in England in 2024, and 9,535 Syphilis cases.

The UK recently rolled out a new vaccination for Gonorrhoea, after cases hit a record of 85,000 in 2023.

How to protect yourself

Mike Asher, Chairman and CEO of Better2Know, had this to say of the new data:

“Any increase in the number of STIs, whether in the UK or around the world, is a concern. While the cause of this rise hasn’t been determined yet, it reemphasises the importance of safe sex and regular STI testing. While there have been important strides forward in developing new vaccines, especially for Gonorrhoea, the risk of transmission remains. We encourage all sexually active people to get tested regularly and to use condoms where possible to secure their health.”

FAQs

What are the symptoms of Gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea symptoms can 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 Gonorrhoea have no symptoms at all, making regular STI testing essential.

What are the symptoms of Syphilis?

Syphilis develops in stages. Early symptoms often include a painless sore (called a chancre) at the site of infection. Later symptoms can include:

• Skin rashes
• Flu-like symptoms
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fatigue

Can you have Gonorrhoea or Syphilis without symptoms?

Yes. Both Gonorrhoea and Syphilis can be asymptomatic, especially during the early stages of infection. This means you can pass the infection to sexual partners without knowing you have it.

Are Gonorrhoea and Syphilis curable?

Yes. Both Gonorrhoea and Syphilis are bacterial infections that can usually be cured with appropriate antibiotic treatment.

How often should I get tested for STIs?

If you’re sexually active, especially with new or multiple partners, Better2Know recommends regular STI testing every few months.

How can I reduce my risk of getting Gonorrhoea or Syphilis?

You can lower your risk by:

• Using condoms consistently during vaginal, anal, and oral sex
• Getting tested regularly
• Encouraging partners to get tested
• Avoiding sexual contact when symptoms are present
• Seeking treatment immediately if an infection is diagnosed

What happens if Gonorrhoea or Syphilis is left untreated?

Untreated Gonorrhoea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and chronic pain. Untreated Syphilis can progress to severe complications affecting the heart, blood vessels, brain, and nervous system.

Final thoughts

If you’re concerned about your sexual health, don’t leave it to chance. Knowing more can 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.

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