Summary:
- Gonorrhea and syphilis cases reach 10-year highs in Europe
- Congenital syphilis rates more than double over the same time period
- Increases in STD rates re-emphasise the need for safe sex practices and comprehensive STD screening
The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has just launched new data showing a dramatic increase in the number of sexually transmitted infections (STDs) on the continent.
Rates of STDs are increasing in many parts of the world.
Gonorrhea and Syphilis Cases hit a 10-year high in 2024, sparking new concerns about safe-sex practices and testing methods.
Syphilis cases doubled between 2015 and 2024 to 45,557. Confirmed gonorrhea cases more than tripled to 106,331.
This marks a huge change in the sexual health landscape, where some infections were thought to be under control.
Of particular concern was the sharp increase in the number of cases of congenital syphilis, where infections are transmitted directly from mother to child during pregnancy. These cases almost 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 STDs. However, heterosexual women of reproductive age also saw significant increases in syphilis cases.
The UK collects its own STD data. The UK’s Sexual Health Safety Agency reported that there were 71,802 cases of gonorrhea in England in 2024 and 9,535 cases of syphilis.
The UK has recently launched a new gonorrhea vaccineafter cases hit a record 85,000 in 2023.
How to protect yourself
Mike Asher, President and CEO of Better2Know, said of the new data:
“Any increase in the number of STIs, whether in the UK or around the world, is a cause for concern. Although the cause of this increase is yet to be determined, it highlights once again the importance of safe sex and regular STD testing. While important steps forward have been made in the development of new vaccines, especially for gonorrhea, the risk of transmission remains active and we encourage all people to have regular sexual health.”
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of gonorrhea?
Symptoms of gonorrhea may include:
- Pain or burning during urination
- Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
- Pain during sex
- Bleeding between periods
- Pain in the testicles in men
However, many people with gonorrhea have no symptoms at all, which makes regular STD screening 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 may include:
- Skin 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 during the early stages of infection. This means you can pass the infection on 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 treated with appropriate antibiotic therapy.
How often should I be tested for STDs?
If you’re sexually active, especially with new or multiple partners, Better2Know recommends regular STD tests every few months.
How can I reduce my risk of getting gonorrhea or syphilis?
You can reduce your risk by:
- Consistent use of condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex
- Have regular exams
- Encouraging associates to get tested
- Avoiding sexual contact when symptoms are present
- Seek treatment immediately 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 develop into serious complications affecting the heart, blood vessels, brain and nervous system.
Final thoughts
If you are concerned about your sexual health, don’t leave it to chance. Knowing more can help you make important health decisions. Click the button below to book an STD test at a clinic near you.
Don’t leave your sexual health to chance.
