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Health officials have welcomed the recent notable decline in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) throughout the city, attributing this progress in part to sustained high testing rates, which are crucial for early detection and ongoing reduction of infections. Liverpool has experienced a remarkable 17.8% decrease in STI diagnoses, a figure that surpasses the national average reduction of 8.7%.
Recent statistics show that the city reported 954 fewer cases, continuing the downward trend following a 21% fall in infections recorded between 2023 and 2024. Importantly, this decline was observed despite only a slight decrease in the number of people getting tested, indicating a genuine reduction in transmission rather than lower testing uptake. Public health experts stress that maintaining robust testing levels is essential to build on this success.
Liverpool City Council’s Public Health team cautions against complacency, particularly as STIs remain more common among certain groups, including young people under 25, gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), and Black African, Caribbean, and other ethnic minority communities. They emphasize that regular STI testing should be viewed as a normal and important component of sexual health care.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, expressed satisfaction with the progress, saying, “We are really pleased with these latest figures and the sexual health and testing programme we have in place locally. Regular STI testing is a normal part of looking after your sexual health and wellbeing. We encourage people to test at least once a year, and/or whenever you have a new partner, to stay confident and protected.” Meanwhile, Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool City Council, highlighted the achievements but reminded the public that “STIs still have a disproportionate impact on some groups, and regular testing remains vital. We want people to feel confident coming forward, and we have great local services to help people do so. Getting tested is quick, easy and free.”
Residents are encouraged to continue making use of free and confidential sexual health services provided by Axess Sexual Health, commissioned by Liverpool City Council. Axess offers free testing and treatment for STIs, HIV testing and prevention options including PrEP and PEP, contraception services such as emergency contraception, as well as confidential advice and support. Services are accessible through clinics throughout the city and also online, where individuals can order home testing kits. Additional information and support can be found on the Liverpool PaSH website
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