Andrew Rogers reported on Max, who received news of his gonorrhoea diagnosis while in the shower. Max’s case was just one of over 85,000 cases in England last year, marking the highest level on record. The number of cases has more than doubled in the past decade, highlighting the increasing prevalence of gonorrhoea in the UK. Max, who had previously not experienced any STIs, suddenly found himself with multiple infections over a short period, emphasizing the ease with which gonorrhoea can be contracted.
Gonorrhoea remains one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the UK, often showing no symptoms. Despite the recommendation to use condoms during sex as a means of reducing the risk, it does not entirely eliminate the possibility of contracting gonorrhoea. Treatment typically involves a single antibiotic injection, although there have been reports of treatment-resistant cases in the UK, underscoring the need for alternative strategies.
In November 2023, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) proposed a focused distribution of the MenB vaccine as a preventive measure against gonorrhoea. The vaccine, primarily designed for combating Meningitis B in children, displayed around 40% effectiveness in preventing gonorrhoea transmission. The JCVI suggested that offering the vaccine to high-risk groups, such as gay and bisexual men and individuals with a history of STIs, could prove cost-effective in the long run.
Max, an advocate for destigmatizing STIs, shared his gonorrhoea diagnosis online to encourage open discussions around sexual health. He emphasized the importance of normalizing conversations about STIs to combat shame and promote awareness. Additionally, organizations like The Love Tank in London campaign for broader access to preventive measures like the MenB vaccine and Doxy-PEP. Phil from The Love Tank stresses the necessity of prioritizing public health initiatives and access to medications to safeguard individuals’ overall well-being
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