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Recent figures indicate an increase in new genital herpes cases across England, even as overall sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates continue to decline. According to the latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), nearly 29,000 individuals received a diagnosis of genital herpes in 2025, marking a 3% rise compared to the previous year. This stands in contrast to a general 8% decrease in STI diagnoses during the same period, with infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis all showing reductions.
Health experts highlight that the increase in genital herpes—a virus transmitted primarily through skin-to-skin contact—serves as a reminder of the persistent public health challenges posed by STIs, reinforcing the importance of regular testing. The virus can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, even in the absence of visible symptoms. Additionally, genital herpes may spread if a cold sore comes into contact with the genital area. While new infections declined during the Covid-19 pandemic due to reduced testing, numbers have been on the rise again, though they remain below pre-pandemic levels when nearly 35,000 new cases were recorded in 2019.
Within different population groups, trends vary considerably. The UKHSA notes that despite an overall reduction in STI cases, infections remain particularly prevalent among young people as well as gay and bisexual men. For example, diagnoses of syphilis in gay and bisexual men dropped significantly by 19%, hitting the lowest levels since 2016. Conversely, syphilis cases among heterosexual women increased by 5%. Among all STIs, chlamydia remains the most common infection, accounting for nearly half of the diagnoses, followed by gonorrhoea and genital herpes.
Dr Hamish Mohammed, a consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, acknowledged the strides made in managing STIs but stressed the ongoing need for vigilance. He emphasized the risks posed by these infections, advising, “If you have had sex with a new or casual partner without a condom, it’s important to get tested – even if you don’t have symptoms.” He also expressed concern over a 9% decline in chlamydia testing in 2025, noting that untreated chlamydia can result in serious complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. Encouraging young women who are sexually active to undergo regular screening, especially after sexual contact with a new partner, remains a key public health message. Consistent condom use continues to be a crucial measure in preventing the transmission of many STIs, including genital herpes
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